Are Humans the Only Species Who Can Work Technology?

Depends on what you mean by “technology.”

An ape, given a hammer, can crack a coconut – a simple yet effective form of tool use. However, technology can range from a simple chunk of rock on a stick to the sophisticated Hubble telescope. The traditional notion that humans are the only species capable of using technology is evolving, with modern research challenging our previous understanding.

The Evolution of Human Technology Use

When I was a child, people believed that humans were the only animals that used tools. This view later narrowed to the idea that humans were the only ones to make tools to create other tools. However, this limited definition is insufficient, as most of us can easily distinguish humans from other animals based on appearance or behavior alone.

Complex Tool Use in Non-Human Animals

Crows are fascinating examples of animals that exhibit sophisticated tool use. Observers have seen them take a piece of metal wire, bend it into the shape of a hook, and use it to extract food from the bottom of a container. This demonstrates not only the use of technology but also the ability to forge simple technology. Further, if we consider language as part of technology, the gorilla Koko is a notable example. Known for her extensive sign language vocabulary, Koko demonstrated creativity in combining words to communicate novel ideas accurately.

Learning and Adaptation

Any animal that can be taught by humans and is limited only by its capacity to learn provides examples of technology usage. For instance, bonobos have been observed using human technology to press symbols for communication, operate vending machines to build fires, and light and use them for cooking. These instances show that some animals can learn to use human technology, suggesting we expand our definition of technology to include complex human tools and systems.

The evolution of these skills in wild animals over time is a testament to their adaptability. If given the opportunity, some animals may make their own discoveries and develop new technologies. This highlights the potential for many species to work with and use technology.

The Question of Uniqueness

While it's tempting to claim that humans are the only species capable of working technology, the evidence suggests otherwise. Many animals demonstrate remarkable abilities in tool use, communication, and invention. This challenges the traditional notion of human uniqueness in this regard and encourages us to broaden our understanding of technology and intelligence across the animal kingdom.

Conclusion

The line between human and non-human technology use is becoming increasingly blurred. As we continue to evolve, so too will the capabilities of animals, potentially leading to new forms of technology that are beyond our current imagination. Therefore, it is more accurate to view the use of technology as a trait that is not solely human, but one that is evolving across the animal kingdom.