Final answer:
Laboratory experiments demonstrate that animals have some cognitive capacities, which allows them to learn and adapt. These cognitive skills are evident in animals with larger brains and more complex cerebral cortices, though not identical to human cognitive capabilities. Therefore, the most appropriate answer is C. some cognitive capacities
Step-by-step explanation:
Laboratory experiments have shown that animals have cognitive capacities. These capacities allow animals to learn and adapt, which are indicative of cognitive abilities. The spectrum of cognitive capabilities may not be identical to humans, but it is evident that many animals, especially those with larger brain-to-body size ratios and more complex cerebral cortices, have significant cognitive skills. Cognitive learning is not limited to humans, and studies, including those conducted on rats and primates, demonstrate the ability of animals to form cognitive maps, use language, and learn by imitation.
Humans do possess unique mental capacities, especially advanced language and problem-solving skills, but saying animals have cognitive capabilities similar to most humans would be overstating their abilities, whereas claiming animals have almost no cognitive capabilities or that their capacities are better than most humans would be inaccurate. Therefore, the most appropriate answer is C. some cognitive capacities, acknowledging that animals do have cognitive skills, albeit not on the same level as humans.