Animal Quote by Peter Godfrey-Smith
““seems plausible that an animal might feel pain or thirst without having an “inner model” of the world,””
About This Quote
Source Book: Other Minds: The Octopus, the Sea, and the Deep Origins of Consciousness, 2016
Animals may experience pain or thirst without a mental representation of the world, suggesting consciousness can be non-representational.
In simple terms: Pain can exist without self‑model.
Key Takeaway
Consider diverse forms of experience.
Themes
consciousness
animal welfare
philosophy of mind
Mood
thoughtful
ethical
Type
scientific
philosophical
When to use this quote
- animal research
- veterinary care
- environmental policy
Key Concepts
biology
ethics
Questions to Reflect On
- How should we treat beings without self‑awareness?
- What ethical duties arise from this view?
A Different Perspective
Assessing animal suffering is complex.
