The Inner Life of Animals

Résumé du livre

Peter Wohlleben studied forestry and, for more than 20 years, worked in forest management. He quit his job to start his own forest enterprise in Germany’s Eifel region, where he championed alternative forestry and advocated for primeval forests. He has published multiple titles about forests and environmental protection, one of which is called Der Wald – Ein Nachruf (The Forest – An Obituary).

Animals and humans share profound emotional and biological parallels, from shared brain structures like the limbic system to hormonal messengers such as oxytocin, which foster bonding. These similarities challenge long-standing assumptions about animal emotions, as seen in studies like Victoria Braithwaite’s work on fish pain or experiments revealing self-awareness in species ranging from pigs to ravens. Social animals often display complex behaviors, including shame, justice, and empathy, shaped by group dynamics and survival needs. However, human perceptions of animals are often clouded by biases, such as anthropomorphism or utilitarian classifications, which obscure their true nature. By exploring these emotional and behavioral intricacies, we gain a deeper appreciation for the shared instincts and impulses that connect us to the animal kingdom, setting the stage for further insights into their inner worlds.

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