Monday, June 18, 2012



I found this video very interesting because it not only is an example of shaping behavior in a goldfish (if there was ever any doubt that that behavior can be shaped I have only to think of the fish I have had) but also because the video includes an example of discrimination.  Discrimination, in my mind, is one step closer to being reflective, which is a human trait that I consider differentiating.  That is, I feel that humans' ability to be reflective is the reason we are able to demonstrate behaviors that are not expected and predictable.  So, although discrimination may be more complex than a simple conditioned response, clearly it is not the only component or defining factor in reflection.  Do you think a goldfish is capable of drawing conclusions? (i.e. "The light is not on so I know I won't get any food.")

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