I take it there is an argument in there somewhere, but I cannot discern one. Neurons are highly specialized, and configured in a manner that has been mapped, to show where we register sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell. There are specific areas governing speech and other activities. But the main thing is, you have my point exactly backwards: one cell cannot possibly do what a collection of billions can do. Therefore, it is dubious that the amoeba is "experience rich".
Since you seem to know something about biology, I should not have to specify cerebral functions in order to make clear why I think human beings are pretty unique.The brain and supporting nervous system is an awesome thing, and it makes sense to doubt strained analogies with plants.
As soon as you show me a species of plant (or animal, for that matter) that writes literature, composes symphonies, paints paintings, forms courts of law, and all of the other array of activities we call human, then you may have a right to deride my sense of the uniqueness of human beings. Until then, give me a break.
I do not own a Barcalounger. I have taken hikes, though not recently. I have read some science books. All of it made me more anthropocentric, by underlining the contrast between nature and civilization. |
