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Originally Posted by kerry edwards
Where do zoologists draw the line on experiencing pain and suffering? Central nervous system? But there are humans with central nervous systems that don't experience pain. To what extent does self-consciousness add to the experience of pain?
Are there animals that routinely practice cannibalism? I can't think of any off the top of my head, but I'm thinking it's possible.
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It's been quite a while since I took classes in general biology and zoology, nevertheless I'll try to answer some of your questions by giving examples.
It is known that elephants mourn their dead brethren. They are very social animals and in addition to physical pain they also feel emotional pain - they do suffer. I'd say a CNS (or a similar nervous system with highly developed, dedicated neurons) is essential to feel physical pain. However, insects do not feel physical pain, even though they have a complex nervous system.
Some humans don't experience (physical) pain indeed, but that is because of a rare disease I can not recall right now.
Cannibalism is very common among Araneae (spiders) where the female literally has great appetite for the male after the sexual intercourse. I admit this is the ony example that comes to my mind instantly, but one thing I know is that in the "wild" sources for food are usually limited and cannibalism is one solution to this problem. In extreme situations cannibalism could be the key to survival.
"To what extent does self-consciousness add to the experience of pain?" Now, that's philosophical
In my opinion, given you have enough of it, it can worsen but also relief the pain - it depends.