Traditionally, we’ve measured animal intelligence through tasks and tests that rely on human language skills. But what if, in a world saturared with emotion, this approach is fundamentally flawed?
by David Stone
The Roosevelt Island Daily News
Words, after all, are just symbols we use to represent complex ideas and experiences. They may not translate directly to the inner world of an animal. Animals, in other words, may not be all that interested in talking and share feelings directly instead.
That may explain some of why many of us love having them as household friends. And why cats and dogs sometimes look at us like we’re illiterates… because we are, emotionally.
“Our perfect companions never have fewer than four feet.”
Colette
The Limitations of Words
Imagine trying to explain the feeling of love to someone who has never experienced it. You could use all the words in the dictionary, but true understanding would likely remain elusive. The same goes for animals. They might possess rich emotional lives and complex thought processes, but expressing them through our human concept of language might be impossible or hopelessly imprecise. Isn’t it like that for us sometimes too?
Haven’t we all known the comfort derived from animals in difficult times where no words really help?
A close friend of mine says that, whenever there’s a family argument that makes her feel sad or injured, her cat doesn’t hide but, instead, comes to sit with her. Wordlessly.
The Power of Emotion: A Universal Language
Emotions, on the other hand, seem to be a more fundamental language, one potentially shared across the animal kingdom. Fear, joy, anger, sadness – these are basic feelings observed in a wide variety of species. By focusing on emotional connection, we can bridge the gap between humans and other animals and foster a deeper understanding.
“If having a soul means being able to feel love and loyalty and gratitude, then animals are better off than a lot of humans.”
James Herriot
This goes for human relations too. We can never fully express an emotion in words. Something less physical, the feeling, must be there.
How to Connect with Animals Emotionally
Here are some ways to connect with animals on an emotional level:
- Observe their body language: Pay attention to ears, tails, and posture. A wagging tail in a dog signifies happiness, while flattened ears in a cat indicate fear.
- Use positive reinforcement: Reward desired behaviors with treats, praise, or gentle petting. This builds trust and positive associations.
- Stay calm and patient: Animals pick up on our emotions. Avoid loud noises, sudden movements, or aggression, which can create anxiety.
- Empathize with their needs: Consider what the animal might be feeling. Are they scared of a loud noise? Do they need food or water?
Beyond this, consider the possibility that animals think very much like we do but don’t see the point of converting it into phrases, paragraphs or even exclamations. Or that our gift of language may also be a course leaving us permanently disconnected with the heart of being alive.
Building Bridges of Understanding
By prioritizing emotional connection over word-based tests, we can unlock a new level of understanding in our relationship with animals. We might discover a world of intelligence and sentience that we previously overlooked.
After all, emotions are a powerful language, perhaps the key to truly connecting with the creatures that share our world. That could change us for the better or simply open us up to a greater vibrancy than we’ve imagined.
So next time you interact with an animal, focus on the emotional connection first. Don’t use words unless you have to. You might be surprised at what you learn.
You Can FOIL* It
On April 15, at the Steam Plant Demolition Town Hall, a simple exchange revealed something far more consequential than anything formally presented that evening.
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