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popafire
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Human intelligence alone was mostly developed due to group hunting and high intake of animal-based foods. Humans, as well as all other intelligent animal species (although none are on the level of humans), mostly have one characteristic in common: an omnivorous/carnivorous diet and group hunting. Hunting in groups is a task that requires planning, coordination, problem-solving, pattern recognition, awareness, etc., all of which contribute to the development of higher cognition and emotional intelligence. Animal-based foods such as bone marrow and other animal tissues are dense in calories and nutrients; anthropologists and biologists generally agree that these foods contributed significantly to the development of the human brain (and the brains of other intelligent animals). Some other animals that fit this example are crows and dolphins; both are intelligent, group-hunting carnivores/omnivores. This isn’t to say that animal food consumption is the only way a species can evolve to develop higher cognition; elephants, which are herbivores, are one of the most intelligent animal species.
Contrary to most predatory animals, humans developed different features related to hunting. Humans have small canines and large molars, which are unusual in predators. The reason for this weaker dentition and lower bite force is the hunting and eating style humans developed. Unlike other predators, humans hunt primarily by using tools; especially through throwing (hence why humans can throw objects with incredible precision). Other hunters rely on sheer strength, strong/large teeth and claws, as well as powerful bite forces.
But why did humans surpass all other animals in intelligence? Currently, this question is still debated. There is a grey area concerning the exact reason for such an extreme need for intelligence. Most point to the harsh environment (the savannah) as the main pressure for higher intelligence. The reason as to why other intelligent predators didn’t evolve similarly is also debated. Some explanations or consequences of this evolutionary shift could include language, physical traits, and social aspects. Humans are bipeds with freed hands and fine motor capacities, allowing optimal tool usage. This unique combination allowed for the development of more advanced tools. Other animals do not possess all of these characteristics combined. Another consequence is the long maturation time. Humans are among the animals with the longest maturation period. This allows for immense neuroplasticity, language learning, and brain development in general. Language itself allows for communication and the transfer of knowledge across generations.
Now, the reason as to why humans are superior to other animals comes down to two factors: psychological and physical traits. This claim of superiority isn’t simply arrogance; it is how other animals see us (especially intelligent animals). Surprisingly, humans are relatively taller than most animal species, even great apes like chimpanzees or gorillas (our closest relatives). This trait alone makes many animals fear humans. However, the main factor behind this fear is human unpredictability. Animals have learned over millions of years about the danger a human can pose, and this is especially reflected among wolves. Contrary to popular belief, wolves fear humans, especially when alone. They recognize humans as apex predators. For intelligent animals, the general reaction to humans is mixed, but there is one commonality: they can sense the gap between their cognition and that of a human.
Contrary to most predatory animals, humans developed different features related to hunting. Humans have small canines and large molars, which are unusual in predators. The reason for this weaker dentition and lower bite force is the hunting and eating style humans developed. Unlike other predators, humans hunt primarily by using tools; especially through throwing (hence why humans can throw objects with incredible precision). Other hunters rely on sheer strength, strong/large teeth and claws, as well as powerful bite forces.
But why did humans surpass all other animals in intelligence? Currently, this question is still debated. There is a grey area concerning the exact reason for such an extreme need for intelligence. Most point to the harsh environment (the savannah) as the main pressure for higher intelligence. The reason as to why other intelligent predators didn’t evolve similarly is also debated. Some explanations or consequences of this evolutionary shift could include language, physical traits, and social aspects. Humans are bipeds with freed hands and fine motor capacities, allowing optimal tool usage. This unique combination allowed for the development of more advanced tools. Other animals do not possess all of these characteristics combined. Another consequence is the long maturation time. Humans are among the animals with the longest maturation period. This allows for immense neuroplasticity, language learning, and brain development in general. Language itself allows for communication and the transfer of knowledge across generations.
Now, the reason as to why humans are superior to other animals comes down to two factors: psychological and physical traits. This claim of superiority isn’t simply arrogance; it is how other animals see us (especially intelligent animals). Surprisingly, humans are relatively taller than most animal species, even great apes like chimpanzees or gorillas (our closest relatives). This trait alone makes many animals fear humans. However, the main factor behind this fear is human unpredictability. Animals have learned over millions of years about the danger a human can pose, and this is especially reflected among wolves. Contrary to popular belief, wolves fear humans, especially when alone. They recognize humans as apex predators. For intelligent animals, the general reaction to humans is mixed, but there is one commonality: they can sense the gap between their cognition and that of a human.
