infocus #12 December 2008 Microscopical Substantiation of Intelligence in Living Cells

Brian J Ford proposes that the problem-solving propensity, sometimes referred to as intelligence, is evident even in single cells.

DOI: 10.22443/rms.inf.1.37

We pride ourselves, as humans, on our intelligence. It is often construed as a characteristic specifically exhibited by our species above all others, though there are examples of intelligent behaviour in other life-forms that can be cited. A recent book bears the bold title ‘Animal Intelligence’ (Reznikova, 2007). It considers intelligent behaviour, not only mammals and birds, but even in invertebrates. The examples described show remarkable abilities in many forms of animal life that allow them to adapt to difficult situations, to take extraordinarily complex decisions, and to adapt to changing circumstances.

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