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Life

Some scientists say insects are conscious – it doesn't settle anything

A group of around 40 scientists signed a declaration calling for formal acknowledgement of consciousness in a range of animals, including insects and fish – but the evidence is still lacking

By Corryn Wetzel

22 April 2024

Do insects have consciousness?

Shutterstock / ploypemuk

Zebrafish can recognise their reflection in a mirror. Bees play with wooden balls, apparently for fun. eat less lunch when they anticipate a more delicious dinner. These recent discoveries were presented as mounting evidence that species across the animal kingdom have the capacity for consciousness. The findings have come piecemeal over decades, as researchers study one species or another. But taking a look at them together prompted a group of around 40 scientists to sign at a conference on 19 April.

The declaration calls for…

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