The Intelligence of Animals

Abstract

THIS little work has been written, the author states, in order to awaken public interest in the daily lives of the numerous animals which surround us, and to enforce the view that they are not mere lumps of animated clay, but creatures quickened by the fire of intelligence, and mentally as well as physically our brethren. The facts and arguments of modern writers on the subject have been condensed, and the results presented in a way calculated to interest the average reader, but always from the somewhat peculiar standpoint of the author. In his own words:—“The object of this work is, first, to prove that, among animals instinct, as distinguished from intelligence, is non-existent, that, in fact, it is a mere name; and, secondly, that the intelligence of the higher animals is essentially the same as our own.”

The Intelligence of Animals.

By Charles William Purnell. (Christchurch and Dunedin, N.Z.: Whitcombe and Tombs, Limited, 1893.)