May 2008 PMID 18424224

Does the chimpanzee have a theory of mind? 30 years later.

Josep Call, Michael Tomasello

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Peak: 1 in Nov 2021

across 5 sources since Nov 2021

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AI synopsis

What people are saying

The discussions highlight an overall cautious optimism about whether chimpanzees possess a theory of mind, with phrases like 'plausibly yes' and references to foundational works by Call and Tomasello illustrating a thoughtful engagement with the research. The tone suggests both curiosity and analytical thinking, emphasizing the nuanced nature of the findings and their implications for understanding animal cognition.

AgreementModerate agreement

Most comments lean towards agreement with the idea that chimpanzees show some understanding of mental states, but not full theory of mind, as reflected in phrases like 'plausibly yes' and cautious references to human-like beliefs.

InterestHigh interest

The discussions showcase high interest, with posters referencing decades of research and engaging with foundational studies, indicating curiosity and investment in the topic.

EngagementModerate engagement

Comments explore details from the publication and related experiments, indicating moderate engagement as they analyze implications rather than dismissing the findings.

ImpactModerate impact

The discourse suggests awareness of the ongoing scientific debate about animal cognition, implying a modest but meaningful recognition of the research's significance rather than seeing it as trivial.

Abstract in brief

The article reviews 30 years of research on whether chimpanzees have a theory of mind, finding that they understand others' goals, intentions, perceptions, and knowledge but not false beliefs.
Evidence from various experiments shows chimpanzees can grasp what others see and know, indicating they have some level of understanding of mental states.
However, there is no current proof that chimpanzees comprehend false beliefs, leading to the conclusion that their theory of mind is more limited and based on perception and goals rather than full human-like beliefs and desires.

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All mentions

Understanding Theory of Mind in Humans and Animals

What is theory of mind and why is it so important to psychologists? This video explores its significance, particularly in understanding mental states in humans and animals. Recent advancements in studying ToM in…

Psy vs. Psy · Nov 25, 2021 480 views

Understanding Theory of Mind in Children and Primates

This video explores the concept of theory of mind, including its significance in understanding children's psychological development and our understanding of primates' mental states, based on 30 years of research.

Psikolog Farah Sümeyye Tunç · Feb 22, 2025 44 views

Hannah Walser

@hkpmw.bsky.social · Bluesky

(The answer to “Does the Chimpanzee Have a Theory of Mind?” is plausibly “yes”; the answer re Trump still leans no)

Oct 6, 2025 · 4 likes View post →

KAMEJIMA Keisuke

@kskkmjm · X

Call, J., and M. Tomasello. 2008. Does the chimpanzee have a theory of mind: 30 years later. https://t.co/HQ0YBhKn3v

May 22, 2022 · 213 followers View post →