Tel Aviv scientist: “If cats and dogs can learn to get along..."

[starroute]

I was going to post this as a science story -- but on thinking it over, the political implications are far more interesting than the scientific aspect:

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/09/080908135916.htm

Thinking about adopting a perky little puppy as a friend for your fluffy cat, but worried that they’ll fight -- well, like cats and dogs? Think again. New research at Tel Aviv University, the first of its kind in the world, has found a new recipe for success. . . .

In homes where cat/dog détente existed, Prof. Terkel observed a surprising behavior. “We found that cats and dogs are learning how to talk each other’s language. It was a surprise that cats can learn how to talk ‘Dog’ and vice versa.”

What’s especially interesting, Prof. Terkel remarks, is that both cats and dogs have appeared to evolve beyond their instincts. They can learn to read each other’s body signals, suggesting that the two species may have more in common than was previously suspected. . . .

The far-reaching implications of this Tel Aviv University research on cats and dogs may extend beyond pets -- to people who don’t get along, including neighbours, colleagues at work, and even world superpowers. “If cats and dogs can learn to get along,” concludes Prof. Terkel, “surely people have a good chance.”

Neighbours, colleagues, and superpowers -- but notice the enormous elephant in the living room that isn't mentioned at all, but has to be the real subtext of the story?

[Ilsa]

1. I don't think Republicons are evolved enough to get along with anyone,

including themselves. Their party is about to self-destruct.

Yeah, I had to make this about politics!