Do Non-Human Animals Perceive Reality Differently?

Our physical senses and brain processing are optimized for survival, thriving, and reproducing rather than perceiving objective reality or 'truth'

For centuries, scientists, philosophers, and thinkers have pondered the nature of our perception of reality. However, what if the way we perceive reality is not the only way? Could non-human animals perceive reality fundamentally differently than us? This article delves into the fascinating topic of non-human animal cognition and how it might alter our understanding of the world.

The Role of Animal Cognition in Reality Perception

Our physical senses and brain processing are adapted to assist in our survival, thriving, and reproduction, not necessarily to perceive reality or 'truth' accurately. This inherent bias does not negate the existence of reality; instead, it suggests that we must approach our understanding of it with a critical and open mind, discarding or setting aside human-centric desires, intuitions, and interpretations.

Non-Human Animal Cognition: A Gradient of Perception

I propose that there exists a gradient or Hilbert space of phenomenology, with non-human animals occupying a distinct and unique spectrum. Each species, based on its evolutionary path and specific cognitive traits, experiences reality differently, much like the rows of an ontological map.

The nature of reality may differ significantly between non-human animals. In the Hegelian sense, if reality is not monistic but plural, it might encompass numerous potential realities. Considering time dilation as an analogy, the perception of reality from the observer's perspective can be inherently subjective and prone to hyper-subjectivity. This subjective nature of non-human animal perception might allow various species to experience different versions of reality.

Examples of Non-Human Perception

For instance, dogs do not see the same colors we do. They do not hold the same emotional expectations, such as expecting a female mate to love them. This further illustrates the vast differences in perception between humans and non-human animals.

Domesticated animals, such as dogs and cats, often perceive reality differently than their wild counterparts. Domestication has significantly altered their behaviors and cognitive processes, affecting the way they interact with the world around them. Similarly, the imagination and play that humans exhibit during childhood is a unique cognitive feature that may not exist in the same form in non-human animals.

The world is filled with diverse and unique forms of life, each with its own way of interacting with and understanding reality. The perception of reality among non-human animals is fundamentally different from ours, and exploring this subject can broaden our understanding of both the non-human world and our own human reality. Whether it is through imaginative play or simply the capacity to experience colors differently, non-human animals offer a window into the rich tapestry of reality that lies beyond our own.