Question

In most animals, from where does the knowledge of how to survive in their given environment originate?

Select one:
a. It is developed through emulation.
b. It is acquired through cumulative cultural adaptation.
c. It is acquired through direct observational behavior.
d. It is stored in their genes.

Answer 1

The knowledge of how to survive in most animals comes from both innate behaviors stored in their genes and learned behaviors acquired through observational learning and emulation.

Step-by-step explanation:

In most animals, the knowledge of how to survive in their given environment originates from a combination of genetic information and learned behaviors. Innate behaviors, such as certain survival instincts, are stored in their genes and passed down through generations. For example, behaviors that improve fitness and contribute to survival, like mimicry and camouflage, can increase through natural selection. However, animals also acquire knowledge through observational learning. For instance, young wolves learn to hunt by mimicking older pack members, and certain primates learn to wash their food by copying others.

Learning behaviors, including habits like migration patterns, can be developed through emulation, with newer generations observing and imitating older ones. While innate behaviors provide a foundation for survival, cognitive learning plays a critical role in allowing animals to adapt to changes in the environment.

There is evidence to suggest that some behavioral tendencies are innate in humans as well, such as in-group identification and seeking group approval. Yet, environmental factors, particularly cultural ones, shape the specific criteria of what is deemed approvable or disapprovable behavior.