What does classical ethology assert about animal knowledge?

Classical ethology, a field of study established by researchers like Konrad Lorenz and Nikolaas Tinbergen, emphasizes the innate behaviors of animals that are species-specific and often driven by biological factors. According to this perspective, much of what animals know and how they behave is instinctive, meaning they possess these behaviors naturally without needing to learn them through experience. This is evident in various species as they exhibit certain behaviors necessary for survival, such as nesting, mating rituals, and social interactions, which are genetically encoded and typical for that species.

While factors like environment and experience can certainly shape behavior, classical ethology prioritizes the inherent, instinctive nature of these behaviors as being fundamental to how animals engage with their world. Hence, the assertion that animal knowledge is instinctive aligns with the foundational principles of classical ethology.