What is the definition of intelligent life on another planet?

[Bronco 12, argh!]

1. Would something similar to a dog be considered intelligent life?
2. Would something similar to humans from 5000 years ago be considered intelligent life?
3. Does it have to be smarter than us, and if so isn't that pretty anthropocentric and at odds with people who believe there is other intelligent life out there in the first place?

 

[Kyle M]

Any Sentient being is intelligent life

this makes a dog an intelligent being.


What they are differentiating from is if the planet's only life forms are bacteria, plants and sponge like things.

 

[scott o]

The presence of technology and machines defines "intelligent extraterrestrial life"

 

[kubarebo]

There is no such definition, as far as I know. There was no need for one, having found no life at all elsewhere in the Universe -- so far.

 

[Mr. D]

Intelligent life is extraterrestrial life capable of communication with humans.

And communication doesn't necessarily mean talking. E.g. Dogs can communicate with us - we don't speak the language, but it can tell us that it's happy/wants food, and it can tell when you're not happy with it.