Which Primates Recognize Themselves in Mirrors?

Citation

Anderson J & Gallup Jr GG (2011) Which Primates Recognize Themselves in Mirrors?. PLoS Biology, 9 (3), p. e1001024. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pbio.1001024

Abstract
Interest in the comparative study of mirror self-recognition persists because of the implications for self-awareness and the possibility of a cognitive divide among primates. Evidence from many studies carried out over 40 years shows that humans and great apes are distinguished from other nonhuman primates by their capacity for self-recognition. We review some recent developments in the field, with critical reference to claims that monkeys show self-recognition. Focusing on methodological issues, we conclude that there is no compelling evidence for mirror self-recognition in any non-ape primate species.

Keywords
; Primates Behavior; Cognition in animals; Primates Psychology

Journal
PLoS Biology: Volume 9, Issue 3