Can Spiders Feel Emotion?
WouterSpiders are amazing creatures. They are capable of incredible feats such as catching and spinning webs. And, they are intelligent. In fact, many species of spiders display a maternal instinct. However, they cannot feel emotion, like humans can.
A spider’s central nervous system is composed of a diffuse network of cells that communicate with each other through ganglia. The ganglia send signals back to the spider’s brain, which then responds. There are several pairs of ganglia in the spider’s legs, and each signal is transferred back and forth between the ganglia.
Scientists have been researching emotions in different invertebrates, and have found that some insects can experience basic feelings. For example, some bees can be scared when an enemy is nearby. Another study suggests that bumblebees may experience an emotion-like state.
Emotions in arachnids are likely driven by instinct, and may involve hunger and self-preservation. While they lack the capability to feel joy, love and sadness, they can experience fear and pain.
Emotional intelligence in spiders has been studied in limited detail. However, there have been some interesting results. According to a 2011 study, bees may produce less serotonin after a bad experience, and some arachnids may actually show emotion.
However, there is no way to know for sure. In order to determine whether a spider is capable of feeling emotion, scientists will need to take into account factors such as its sensory capabilities and its central nervous system. This is not easy.
