My question reflects a philosophical question about the continuity of intelligence across time - not genetic information, e.g., no known genes carry intelligence. It questions whether individuals who are considered intelligent in the present will continue to be intelligent in the future. This question implies skepticism or uncertainty about the stability or predictability of intelligence over time.
It's worth noting that this phrase doesn't necessarily assert a definitive answer, but rather prompts reflection and discussion on the nature of intelligence and its persistence or change over time.
In evolutionary history, dinosaurs became dominant but became extinct! And which "unintelligent species" were trampled under the feet of dinosaurs still survive to this day!
This statement reflects on the complexities of evolution and the survival of species over time. Let's break it down:
Evolutionary History of Dinosaurs: Dinosaurs were a diverse group of reptiles that dominated the Earth for millions of years during the Mesozoic Era. They were incredibly successful and diverse, evolving into various forms and occupying different ecological niches.
Extinction of Dinosaurs: Despite their dominance, dinosaurs eventually became extinct around 65 million years ago, likely due to a combination of factors such as asteroid impact, volcanic activity, and climate change. This event, known as the Cretaceous-Paleogene extinction event, led to the demise of most dinosaur species.
Survival of "Unintelligent Species": The statement suggests that while dinosaurs were dominant, there were other species that were considered less intelligent or less dominant. These species may have been overshadowed or even trampled by the presence of dinosaurs. However, despite the extinction of dinosaurs, some of these supposedly "unintelligent species" managed to survive and thrive.
Continued Survival: The statement highlights the resilience and adaptability of certain species that managed to survive the mass extinction event that wiped out the dinosaurs. These species may have possessed traits or adaptations that allowed them to persist through changing environmental conditions and ecological pressures.
Overall, the statement underscores the unpredictable nature of evolution and the survival of species. It emphasizes that intelligence or dominance is not always a guarantee of long-term survival, and seemingly less prominent species can endure and thrive in the face of major ecological upheavals.
COVEREmerald tree boas (Corallus batesii) are nocturnal ambush hunters found in neotropical lowland rainforests. The visible “pits” along the upper and lower lips are part of a sophisticated heat-sensing system that this species uses to locate warm-blooded prey in darkness. Snakes have experienced an evolutionary explosion in diversity as a result of numerous such innovations that have increased their effectiveness as specialized predators. See page 918.