Once upon a time a myth was born that insects, unlike animals, are just a machines that not capable of learning and survive only based on their instincts. That myth has become the widespread opinion. Of course, this opinion is indeed erroneous, like many other widespread opinions. Let us try to find out which part is a myth and which part is true.

A photographer takes a snapshot of the reflection of balloons as they take off from Balloon fiesta park in Corrales, N.M., near a north diversion channel reservoir Wednesday, October 7, 2015. (Photo by Roberto E. Rosales/Albuquerque Journal via AP Photo)

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An elephant from Earl's Court Circus with a man in its mouth, 1928. P.S. All pictures are presented in high resolution.

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Waves breaking at Killiney Beach, Co Dublin, Ireland on Sunday, October 20, 2024. (Photo by Stephen Collins/Collins Photos)

A purple haze of heather as the sun rises over the New Forest near Lyndhurst, Hampshire in UK on July 28, 2025. (Photo by Steve Hogan/Bournemouth News)