The experiment interprets the dolphin's hesitation as "metacognition". But most animals will hesitate and equivocate their action under the right circumstances.

The experiment interprets the dolphin's hesitation as "metacognition". But most animals will hesitate and equivocate their action under the right circumstances. Certainly all mammals. Give your dog a treat. When he takes it, immediately pop him on the nose. Offer another treat. If he takes it, pop him harder on the nose. Keep going until he hesitates. Voila, "metacognition"! (Unless you have a pit bull, in which case you may have difficulty reaching the metacognitive level). And the second question: does this equation hold: "metacognition" = "human consciousness".