In this set of materials, both the lecturer and the writer cover the issue of playful behavior in animals. Regarding the issue, the lecturer contradicts the reading passage’s claim that playful behavior is necessary in animals for three possible theories.
First, according to the lecturer, surplus energy theory is simply wrong. He gives an example that some mammals don’t stop playing when they are hungry. This point refutes the reading passage’s surplus energy theory that animals play for consuming saved energy.
Second, the lecturer goes on to say that playing is not requisite for survival even can be risky. He explains that when animals get along with their peers, they can be injured even killed by predators. This explanation counters the reading passage’s instinct practice theory that playful behavior in animals is related to learn how to survive in the environment.
Finally, the lecturer mentions that animals’ playing has no relationship with social hierarchy. He argues that long established organizational hierarchy in animals can be founded by not playful behavior but other factors. Besides, there is deficient consistency between playing and socialization in animals. This argument cast doubt on the reading passage’s socialization theory that animals establish their social relationship and level system playing in their herd.
207words / 22min