Introduction
Theories about dolphin intelligence range from scientific fascination with their cognitive abilities to conspiracy ideas about their secret communication, even contact with extraterrestrials or government experiments.
Origins
Research into dolphin brains began in the 1960s. Some claim dolphins possess language, self-awareness, and even a role in ancient myths as guides or watchers.
Key Examples
- Claims dolphins communicate telepathically.
- Theorizing they’re “aliens” or ancient advanced species.
- Project MKULTRA experiments involving dolphins in the Cold War.
Critical Analysis
Most scientists recognize advanced intelligence in dolphins, but see no proof of supernatural or extraterrestrial connection.
Influential Literature: Pro & Contra
- John C. Lilly – “Man and Dolphin” – Doubleday, 1961. Lilly, Man and Dolphin. Doubleday, 1961.
- Thomas I. White – “In Defense of Dolphins” – Blackwell, 2007. White, In Defense of Dolphins. Blackwell, 2007.
- Karl Kruszelnicki – “Curious and Curiouser” – HarperCollins, 2014. Kruszelnicki, Curious and Curiouser. HarperCollins, 2014.
- Michael Barkun – “A Culture of Conspiracy” – University of California Press, 2013. Barkun, A Culture of Conspiracy. UCP, 2013.
- David Rothenberg – “Thousand Mile Song” – Basic Books, 2008. Rothenberg, Thousand Mile Song. Basic, 2008.
- Janet Mann (Ed.) – “Cetacean Societies” – University of Chicago Press, 2000. Mann, Cetacean Societies. UCP, 2000.
- Lynne Kelly – “The Skeptic’s Guide to the Paranormal” – Allen & Unwin, 2004. Kelly, Skeptic’s Guide to the Paranormal. Allen & Unwin, 2004.
- Jan Harold Brunvand – “Encyclopedia of Urban Legends” – W.W. Norton, 2001. Brunvand, Encyclopedia of Urban Legends. Norton, 2001.
- Colin Wilson – “The Occult” – Random House, 1971. Wilson, The Occult. RH, 1971.