For decades, the idea of culture was almost exclusively tied to human society. Yet, groundbreaking observations, starting with Jane Goodall’s discovery of tool-using chimpanzees over 50 years ago, have decisively proven that culture—learned behaviors passed down through generations—is widespread across the animal kingdom. From whales to wallabies, species are now known to share survival skills, adapt to changing conditions, and even maintain ecological knowledge through cultural transmission.
The Rise of Non-Human Cultural Studies
The sheer volume of evidence for animal cultures has forced a reevaluation of what it means to be “intelligent” or “unique.” A recent special issue of Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B compiled by Philippa Brakes and others underscores the prevalence of this phenomenon. This isn’t just about abstract scientific debate; culturally transmitted behaviors are often vital for survival, shaping how species thrive in complex environments. Conservation efforts are beginning to reflect this shift, integrating cultural knowledge into reintroduction programs and human-wildlife conflict management.
Longevity, Knowledge, and Ecological Wisdom
The concept of “longevity conservation” adds another layer of complexity. Some long-lived animals, like Greenland sharks and giant tortoises, not only possess genetic adaptations for extended lifespans but also act as repositories of generational knowledge. These older individuals may hold the keys to adapting to environmental fluctuations, demonstrating that cultural transmission isn’t limited to short-lived species. Moreover, studying these creatures reveals biochemical secrets to resisting disease and repairing cells—insights that could be invaluable to human medicine.
Reimagining World Heritage
If whales have distinct cultural traditions in their songs and foraging techniques, should the loss of these behaviors be treated with the same gravity as the destruction of human monuments? This is a challenging question, but one we must confront. Indigenous communities, who have long recognized shared knowledge between species—such as killer whales assisting Australian hunters or dolphins collaborating with Brazilian fishers—offer a model for reciprocal understanding.
The Limits of Technological Hubris
The implications extend to controversial interventions like “de-extinction.” Resurrecting extinct species without the cultural context they need—migration routes, social norms—is a recipe for failure. Without elders to transmit essential knowledge, these hybrids would struggle to survive. This underscores a fundamental truth: culture is not just about genetics; it’s about accumulated experience and social learning.
Beyond Human Exceptionalism
Perhaps the most profound challenge is dismantling human exceptionalism. The more we learn about other species’ cultures, the harder it becomes to deny that we share this planet with a multitude of intelligent, emotional beings. It took over half a century to even begin discussing non-human cultures within conservation circles, yet the reality is that we already live alongside a vibrant web of cultural life forms.
Acknowledging this reality is not merely an academic exercise. It demands a fundamental shift in our responsibilities as custodians of this planet. We don’t need to search for extraterrestrial intelligence; it surrounds us. Absorbing this knowledge may be the most important step toward ensuring a future where human actions align with the rich bio-cultural diversity of Earth.
Philippa Brakes, a behavioural ecologist at Massey University, New Zealand, and Marc Bekoff, professor emeritus at the University of Colorado Boulder, are leading figures in this vital field.
