Corvids, such as crows or ravens, have been an ongoing source of public fascination. They are also common subjects of scientific attention, due to their advanced cognitive abilities, but until recently little attention has been paid to the subjective nature of their inner lives.
Here, Dr Browning talks about some of her team’s recent work, using a five-dimensional framework for animal consciousness to investigate the potential nature of corvid minds, and how it can inform ethical interactions with these birds.
Bio
Dr Heather Browning is a Lecturer in Philosophy at the University of Southampton. She specialises in animal sentience and welfare.
Prior to her current position, she worked as part of the Foundations of Animal Sentience project at the London School of Economics, producing a report for DEFRA reviewing the evidence of sentience in cephalopod molluscs and decapod crustaceans that led to an amendment of the UK’s Animal Welfare (Sentience) Act to include their protection.
Alongside her academic career, she has also worked as a zookeeper and animal welfare officer.
Standard Stuff
Talks are usually on the 4th Wednesday of every month, at 7:00 for 7:30, at The Winchester Club in Winchester. Please take a look at the FAQs for more info.
Admission is £5 which also gives you an entry in the book raffle. We take cash and major cards (cards preferred).
The event is in two parts – the talk and then a Q&A after the interval. We encourage you to support the venue by indulging in the available drinks before and during the event.
You are also welcome to join us for a drink in the bar after the event.