Evidently neurons and brains are "optional" as it relates to learning and awareness (of environment)

[Aureus]

http://www.latimes.com/science/sciencenow/la-sci-sn-slime-mold-brain-learning-20160426-story.html



This tends to beg the question about real "cause" of awareness, and the concept of "learning". We can no limit such traits to organisms with brains and neurons.

Slime molds acclimate to chemical after repeated exposure then lose that acclimation after not being exposed to it. How did you jump the shark all the way into awareness? The study is interesting but it doesn't begin to approach the questions you want to ask.

 

[Michael]

Slime molds acclimate to chemical after repeated exposure then lose that acclimation after not being exposed to it. How did you jump the shark all the way into awareness? The study is interesting but it doesn't begin to approach the questions you want to ask.

Actually quite a number of studies demonstrate that slime molds show signs of rudimentary "intelligence" and they often use terms like "learning". These are properties that are typically associated with awareness.

http://www.nature.com/news/how-brainless-slime-molds-redefine-intelligence-1.11811