Intelligence as an Emergent Property.
The fact that complex emotions are observed in various species beyond humans lends credence to the theory of emotions as emergent properties.
Emergent properties arise from the complex interaction of simpler components. The whole system exhibits characteristics that none of the individual parts possess.
In the context of emotions, our complex neural networks, with interacting brain regions, hormones, and physiological responses, give rise to the experience of emotions.
Observing emotions in other mammals with similar complex neural structures strengthens the argument for emergent properties. It implies that a certain level of neural complexity is necessary for emotions to arise, even though the specific emotional experiences may vary across species.
This is an ongoing area of research, but the evidence suggests that emotions likely emerge from the intricate interplay of various biological and cognitive processes. Of course, our particular upbringing, environment and the people in it also shape the ways we learn to make sense of the world and who we are in it.
Emergent properties typically arise from the interaction of pre-existing components. In the case of complex neural structures, the components (neurons) are not simple building blocks. They have their own intricate structures and functionalities.
The development of complex neural structures involves a series of well-defined biological processes. These processes are driven by genes, environmental cues, and interactions with other cells. It’s more akin to a complex recipe with specific ingredients and steps rather than a bottom-up spontaneous emergence.
However, some aspects of neural structure development might have emergent qualities. For instance, during brain development, neurons exhibit a degree of self-organization, forming intricate connections based on activity patterns. This element of self-assembly could be seen as emergent from the properties of individual neurons. Then there is the process of evolution. The evolution of complex brains likely involved a series of modifications building upon existing structures. These modifications might have resulted from emergent properties not explicitly encoded in the genes.
While the intricate final product (complex neural structures) might appear emergent, the underlying processes are likely a combination of pre-existing functionalities and programmed development. The self-organization and evolutionary tinkering aspects might have emergent qualities, but the core development is driven by more defined biological mechanisms. Perhaps there are underlying and as yet undiscovered rules governing these mechanisms.