Explain what you take to be the difference between an animal decision and a human decision.?

Answer 1

Using the limbic system of the brain is the 'animal' decision-making portion of our brains, the place where our primitive instincts and emotions reside

The cerebral cortex is a more recent addition, say in the last 100,000, here is where our rational and logical processes reside, the place where 'human' decisions are made.

Humans revert to both parts of the brain, depending on their reaction to the environment around them....ie, fear, depression, rage, philosophizing, etc.

Answer 2

Interesting question!

I would argue that there isn't any difference really at the point of decision itself. But unlike animals, we humans have self-awareness and the ability to rationalize our decisions (usually after the fact) and ascribe them to conscious decision making.

There is evidence to support the idea that consciousness, emotions, and other similar 'human' traits are really playing catch up to rapid-fire instinctive 'decisions' (better stated as "reactions" perhaps) made in the more primitive sections of our brains or very basic 'body state feedback'.

I'll find a link illustrating that point and attach it below.

Answer 3

i think that there is little emotion attatched to an animal decision.

Answer 4

Use of rationality and reason beyond instincts; and the ability to ignore my instincts if i need to