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DuncanS comments on An argument that animals don't really suffer - Less Wrong Discussion
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I think the argument is both true in some ways, and flawed. I agree that it takes a man (or perhaps the higher apes) to form the thought "I am in pain", and that most mammals don't bother with this type of reflexive thinking.
The flaw in the argument is that the "I am in pain" thought isn't the painful bit.
According to the theory behind cognitive behavioral therapy, believing that you're suffering exacerbates the suffering (and is often the major component). They apply this to physical suffering, too.
When I use techniques I'm told are meditation to soothe pain, the painful bit is reduced.