Anthropomorphism

Among the characteristics that have long been thought to make humans unique from other organisms are language, use of tools, and culture. As research began to show the possibility of such characteristics in other animals, such as chimpanzees, the issue of anthropomorphism arose. Although I will not be going into the philosophical aspect of the issue with language in chimpanzees, I still feel it is important to address anthropomorphism. The implications of anthropomorphism (ascribing animals with human characteristics) have played a large role in developing the controversy over the linguistic capacity of chimpanzees. Part of the reason that some scientists have such a problem with the evidence available for language in chimpanzees is that it suggests that humans are not the only ones capable of language.

In “Are we in Anthropodenial?,” Frans de Waal discusses anthropodenial, “a blindness to the human-like characteristics of ourselves.” Several scientists are guilty of anthropodenial when they refuse to look closely at the evidence for language in chimpanzees. As Waal points out, “…we must be very careful not to exaggerate the uniqueness of our species.” Language has been labeled “unique” to humans and in turn, that has caused us to be skeptical of any evidence that tells us otherwise. Despite the importance of being open to new possibilities though, anthropomorphism should be used with caution. As Waal mentions, “To avoid making silly interpretations based on anthropomorphism, one must always interpret animal behavior in the wider context of a species’ habits and natural history.” Given the consequences of anthropodenial and anthropomorphism, Waal asks: “What kind of risk are we willing to take- the risk of underestimating animal mental life of the risk of overestimating it?” Obviously, this will be a very important question for me to reflect on as I develop ideas for my final paper. While it is important to look at the capabilities of chimpanzees with an open mind, it is just as important to avoid making hasty conclusions.