Problem solving and logical reasoning in the macaque monkey

Behav Brain Res. 1996 Dec;82(1):67-78. doi: 10.1016/s0166-4328(97)81109-6.

Abstract

This study focuses on the performances of monkeys in a spatial problem-solving task that involves working memory. Two monkeys had to find, by trial-and-error, the touching order of 2 or 3 targets in a set of 3 or 4 fixed spatial targets. When a solution was found and performed 6 times, the order was changed and the animal had to resume a new search within the same set of targets. Thus, in a training session, many searches (up to 60) could be initialised. The data show that the animals conducted a methodical search for the hidden order and found the solution in a minimal number of trials. We conclude that the monkey is able to construct complex cognitive structures, similar to logical reasoning, to solve spatial problems of this type.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Eye Movements / physiology
  • Macaca mulatta
  • Male
  • Mental Processes / physiology*
  • Problem Solving / physiology*
  • Serial Learning / physiology
  • Space Perception / physiology
  • Visual Perception / physiology