[xmca] Theory of Mind

[Martin Packer <packer@duq.edu>]

Squirrels have it too! (Of course what I mean is that if even squirrels can engage in deception, it clearly doesn't require the capacity to formulate a theory of others' mental states, as most of the ToM researchers assume.)

"...when squirrels are certain that they are being watched, they will actively seek to deceive the would-be thieves. They’ll dig a hole, pretend to push an acorn in, and then cover it over, all the while keeping the prized seed hidden in their mouth. “Deceptive caching involves some pretty serious decision making,” Dr. Steele said. “It meets the criteria of tactical deception, which previously was thought to only occur in primates.” "

<http://www.nytimes.com/2010/07/06/science/06angi.html?src=me&ref=general>

Martin


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