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Monkeys, apes, mirrors and minds: The evolution of self-awareness in primates

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Human Evolution

Abstract

Almost two decades of research on the self-recognition capacity of non-human primates has produced evidence of intriguing phylogenetic differences. Not a single species of monkey has demonstrated the ability to recognize its own reflection in a mirror, despite some claims to the contrary. To date, only humans, orangutans and chimpanzees have passed objective tests of mirror-recognition. This paper reviews the methodology and evidence for self-recognition in primates along with the assumption that this ability is an indicator of self-awareness. The failure of the gorilla to master the task is discussed in some detail, along with an evaluation of anecdotal evidence of self-recognition by at least one gorilla. Also, the evolutionary backdrop of the primates is considered with reference to this unique behavior. Evidence supporting alternate, non-cognitive interpretations of self-recognition is assessed.

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  1. Department of Anthropology, Yale University, 06520, New Haven, CT

    D. J. Povinelli

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Povinelli, D.J. Monkeys, apes, mirrors and minds: The evolution of self-awareness in primates. Hum. Evol. 2, 493–509 (1987). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02437424

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02437424

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