1oo

Cognition Without Brain

Species Intelligence in Plants

we lack a theory to explain phenomena such as “species intelligence” based on epigenetic memory reaching across generations, or emergent “intelligent behavior” taking place on the population level.

intelligence is not a quality that is either present or absent. Instead, it can be present to a varying extent, forming a continuum of stages. An absolute minimum is what she calls a rudimentary intelligence—basically reducible to the ability to react adaptively to the environment, i.e., to learn. Next comes the ability to learn from new stimuli and adapt to changed conditions, and only then the so-called “higher cognitive functions” such as recognition of objects or even self-awareness.



discussion of humans on whether plants have intelligence only shows how far from intelligence humans are.

developmental decisions, such as vernalization, flowering induction, photomorphogenesis or breaking of seed dormancy depend on long-term integration and evaluation of light or temperature inputs, sometimes recorded and recalled after a time far exceeding the normal duration of the plant’s life cycle.



we feel that we can speak of “intelligent” or “adaptive” behavior only if alternatives are available—in other words, if the memorized information affects some decisions. The concept of “decision” may itself, at present, be no less vague (and no less plagued by anthropomorphisms) than those of intelligence or memory, and its more detailed elaboration would thus be obviously desirable.

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