Single Idea 4044

[catalogued under 6. Mathematics / C. Sources of Mathematics / 4. Mathematical Empiricism / a. Mathematical empiricism]

Full Idea

Rats can determine the number of times they have pressed a lever up to at least twenty-four presses,…and can consistently turn down the fifth tunnel on the left in a maze.

Gist of Idea

Rat behaviour reveals a considerable ability to count

Source

Alvin I. Goldman (Phil Applications of Cognitive Science [1993], p.58)

Book Reference

Goldman,Alvin I.: 'Philosophical Applications of Cognitive Science' [Westview 1993], p.58


A Reaction

This seems to encourage an empirical view of maths (pattern recognition?) rather than a Platonic one. Or numbers are innate in rat brains?