Is the distinction between animals and plants caused mainly by the vagaries of

[Mark]

perception.? Animals and plants function differently but are both alive. Humans characterize them as being different but is this caused by perception of the human mind which is sees animals as a type of life it can more easily identify with than say a rose bush?

 

[Andrew Jokerst]

Although they are alive, plants are clearly not conscious beings (with maybe the exception of carnivorous plants), while many animals are seemingly aware of their own existence (with the exception of things like clams, coral, and other things lacking central nervous systems). But as far as animals like mammals and birds, we can tell that they make certain choices in the same manner as we do, and that is why we can identify with them more.

 

[The Ghost of Harrison]

No, it has to do with the ability to turn sunlight into food energy via chlorophyll, which is a defining characteristic of plants and something no animals can do.

Also, plants have a hard time walking around.

 

[novangelis]

There is a very real separation. Plants have chloroplasts; animals have mitochondria. Plant cells are surrounded by a cell wall, and the cells divide differently as a result.

There are cases of sessile animals that appear plant-like. Sea sponges and anemones could easily be confused for plants at first glance, so the perception is not as distinct as the biology.