Evidently neither cats nor dogs, nor other animals that…
““Evidently neither cats nor dogs, nor other animals that listen to human music, were constituted for the appreciation of it, for it is not of the slightest use to them in the struggle for existence. Moreover, they and their organs of hearing were much older than man and his music. Their power of appreciating music is therefore an uncontemplated side-faculty of a hearing apparatus which has become on other grounds what we find it to be. So it is, I believe, with man. He has not acquired his musical hearing as such, but has received a highly developed organ of hearing by a process of selection, because it was necessary to him in the selective process ; and this organ of hearing happens also to be adapted to listening to music.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Music appreciation is a by‑product of hearing evolution, not a direct survival trait; humans retain it because the organ evolved for other reasons.
In simple terms: Music is an accidental benefit of hearing.
Key Takeaway
Recognize that many abilities arise as side effects.
Themes
evolution
biology
music
human nature
Mood
reflective
inquisitive
Type
philosophical
scientific
When to use this quote
- education about music
- psychology research
- art therapy
- evolutionary biology courses
Key Concepts
adaptation
by‑product
exaptation
Questions to Reflect On
- How does music influence human societies beyond biology?
- Can we harness this side‑effect for wellbeing?
A Different Perspective
It may overlook cultural and emotional significance of music for humans.