Nov 5, 2025
Can we learn more about humans by studying animal behavior? For Dr. Francine Dolins, this question lies at the heart of her life's work. An Assistant Professor of Psychology at the University of Michigan-Dearborn, Dr. Dolins explores the rich intersections between animal cognition, ecology, and the evolutionary foundations of behavior.
With a Ph.D. in Cognitive Psychology and Behavioral Primatology from the University of Stirling and a BSc in Behavioral Ecology from the University of Sussex, her research delves into how non-human primates and humans navigate their worlds. From lemurs in Madagascar to tamarins in Costa Rica and Peru, Dr. Dolins studies spatial cognition, decision-making, and navigation in both natural habitats and experimental settings.
In this episode, we discuss:
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Dr. Dolins’s pioneering work on virtual reality research with apes.
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How primates use mental maps and landmarks to make navigational decisions.
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What current research can reveal about the evolution of intelligence, cooperation, and social cognition.
Dr. Dolins also collaborates with scientists worldwide, combining field primatology, technology, and comparative psychology to advance both animal welfare and conservation education. Eager to learn more about this fascinating subject? Click play now to deep dive into how studying our closest relatives helps us understand ourselves…
You can learn more about Dr. Dolins and her work here!
🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts: http://apple.co/30PvU9C
🛍️ Recommended Books from This Episode:
📖 Are We Smart Enough to Know How Smart Animals
Are? by Frans de Waal – A compelling exploration into the
cognitive lives of animals, challenging the long-held assumption
that human intelligence is unique.
👉 Get it
here
📘 The Primate Mind: Built to Connect with Other
Minds – This collaborative volume delves into how primates
perceive, imitate, cooperate and empathize—revealing fascinating
parallels between human and nonhuman minds.
👉 Check it
out
📙 Parrot’s Lament: And Other True Tales of Animal
Intrigue, Intelligence and Ingenuity by Eugene Linden –
Over 100 true stories of animal behavior that combine humor, awe
and insight into how animals think, feel and
interact.
👉 Explore it
here
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