Thomas de Groot <tho### [at] degrootorg> wrote:
> On 31-7-2013 16:11, Stephen wrote:
>
> > Maybe it is saying to the other,

>
> That may well be true.
>
> >
> >
> >> This makes me think about how we humans unconsciously (and erroneously)
> >> project on animals our own attitudes. The /smiling/ chimp is a good example.
> >>
> >
> > How true, although animals can have emotions similar to ours.
> > About the same time that I saw the Komodo dragon (I was working in a zoo). I was
> > with a keeper who was feeding Fairy Penguins. I said that they looked
> > affectionate but she told me that it was just greed. Wallabies exhibited similar
> > behavior, they would let people stroke them hoping for food.
>
> I think that we often misinterpret their emotions into human
> equivalents, except for those basic ones like pain and fear. Like you
> tell, affective behaviour to get food for instance. Cats can gladly give
> you all the affection of the world, but only in fair exchange of safety,
> warmth, food, a welcome lap for a little nap. Not necessarily in that
> order. And they can make you feel stupid too.
>
> Thomas

Yes, that is true. To close your eyes to a cat is simply to say "I love you" or
better "I trust you" to the little beast. I'm hosted by three of them...

Best regads,
Michael

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