PUBLIC OPINION > Atheists Think Apes Can Outthink Humans; Christians, Not So Much
SodaHead News
2012/06/26 15:00:00
Scientists are investing an increasing amount of time and money into the study of animal cognition, and with nearly every new investment comes a new discovery. More and more, it's becoming apparent that we've been underestimating animals, and that's especially true with apes. Recently, studies have shown that there is only a 1.3% difference between human DNA and the DNA of a bonobo ape. We asked the public if apes could possibly outthink humans.
Believe it or not, this was a split decision. Maybe apes can outthink humans, after all. Some respondents did take this as an opportunity to joke about specific types of people, but there were plenty of serious believers. In fact, some suggested maybe other animals can outthink humans, too. Of course, it depends on the person as much as the animal. As many respondents were adamant that it's just not plausible.
Drinkers Don't Think So
Drinkers were a good 16% less likely to believe that apes can outthink humans. Interestingly enough, alcohol is one thing apes have in common with humans. Some species of monkey that have been exposed to alcohol not only enjoy the substance, but express as many attitudes toward alcohol as humans. Some just drink to relax, some become addicted, and some won't touch the stuff.
Atheists Are Convinced
In some ways, this poll is predisposed to intrigue some people, and turn others off. A major tenet of some religions, particularly western religions, is that humans were created special. On the other hand, a major tenet of science is that humans evolved directly from apes. Where you stand on that paradigm is likely to affect how you respond to the question.
Men Have No Faith in Monkeys
Men were a bit more reluctant to agree that apes could ever outthink humans, while women were a bit more willing. It could be that men have a little more pride in human achievement, or it could be that women can better see the flaws in human achievement. It's not a huge difference, though, so whatever the reason, it's of marginal value.
If you'd like to vote on this question, dig deeper into the demographics, or engage in existing discussion about the topic, visit our poll about apes. We'd love to hear from you!
Top Opinion
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volodymyr sereda sereda 2012/06/26 16:03:17
+14*Watches as the idiotic comments flood in, especially those attacking atheists for their beliefs.*
So, care to take ( with me) a step back, and actually see if we can make a real, informed debate out of this? I would be happy to do just that. Either way, accept this as sincere, as it is meant...Just a thought...
How is it that biologists have taken and made living Bacteria from the universes natural elements... You know not of what you speak.....
PS...So, as you are wrong, Who the hell is indoctrinating you?
Whether you are a Christian or not, we can all agree that the truth is important. Our concept of what is true is the basis upon which our daily decisions are made. That is why any claim a person makes should only be respected if it is based on current empirical evidence and reasoning, not on opinions, traditions, authority, or revelation. Many claims contained within the Bible are not based on and are contradictory to current empirical evidence and reasoning. That is why Christianity is harmful, and we need to stop making it socially acceptable to believe that the Bible is a source of truth.
Just like Jesus of Nazareth... Yep Nazareth exists, but it didnt exist during the time of the fabled Jesus.. Nazareth wasnt in existance untill around the 2nd Century.. Therefor the story of Jesus being from Nazareth is False.......
Hah hah hah
saying that 'white people are hypnotically directed into animals is not rhetoric..quite the contrary for you have NEVER heard it before,,,your reply however is pure rhetoric and reactive...you can't comprehend what i said and as you were programmed labeled it it 'something' just as you were
told to do...even if it was terribly wrong..you had to do something...y'kno..fight back..but you don't have the weapons....they only gave you rhetoric...oh...did I just club a baby seal...ahhhhh...feels good and tastes better