 SMARTS? The field of plant neurobiology is finding signs of intelligence across the flora spectrum.
| I often turn to my begonia for help in solving knotty problems... |
As trowel-wielding scientists dig up a trove of new findings, even those skeptical of the evolving paradigm of "plant intelligence" acknowledge that, down to the simplest magnolia or fern, flora have the smarts of the forest. Some scientists say they carefully consider their environment, speculate on the future, conquer territory and enemies, and are often capable of forethought - revelations that could affect everyone from gardeners to philosophers.
| No surprise. I'm convinced kudzu plans to take over the world, though crabgrass has similar plans that may lead to conflict... |
Indeed, extraordinary new findings on how plants investigate and respond to their environments are part of a sprouting debate over the nature of intelligence itself.
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Reminds me of one exchange with Dalailama... Someone asked, pointing out that he's a vegetarian, if plants do feel pain too when harvested and/or eaten. 'Of course they do', was his reply, 'but they don't scream that loud.' |
