Quote:
Originally Posted by khfreek
So if someone could prove to me that animals do love, then I would be wrong.
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This is a tricky one but I'll shoot. Cognitive ethology/anthropomorphism makes the case that if you observe animals and apply a human interpretation of their actions based on current knowledge of mutual benefits, enjoyment, and psychology that you'll see animals displaying what we think of as "human traits." However, many argue against this field because it requires presumption which is a no-no in the science world.
On the other hand, brain scans show that animals' brains react simularly to stimulation. In fact, for the most part they release proportionate amounts of the same chemicals. This would tell us that most animals feel basic emotions for sure. Complex emotions would require much more in depth studies. I'm not sure how you would go about testing such a thing or measure the results.
Personal non-scientific experience would have me lean torward cats feeling love. This may differ from other animals. If I'm gone for long periods of time my cat will pace in and out of my room. There are always other people around the house to take care of him so it would seem odd for him to do it for personal gain outside of genuinely feeling some form of attachment.