Intelligent being (species)

The classification by terrestrial humans of which species are considered intelligent beings has evolved over time. Humans have consistently been regarded as intelligent beings, while some non-human animal species have also been proposed for this classification.

There may be gradations in intelligence among different species. This topic is potentially sensitive and can involve accusations of speciesism. There are also possible differences in the distribution and variability of intelligence within species.

Note: For intelligence of individual beings, see intelligence.

Terms for intelligence

The term 'intelligent being', although widely used, is vague. In discussions of alien life the term 'intelligent beings' is usually used to refer to humans, as opposed to non-human terrestrial animals, and beings that are on the same level of intelligence as humans or more, wih humans being the only 'intelligent species' on Earth. However, other terms have been proposed.