Some research indicates that the intellectual abilities observed in primates manifest in narrow areas where they can display skills that exceed expectations and even be comparable to human abilities.

Cognitive Frontiers in Primates

Some research indicates that the intellectual abilities observed in primates manifest in narrow areas where they can display skills that exceed expectations and even be comparable to human abilities. This does not mean that primates possess a universal intelligence superior to humans, but rather shows that in certain contexts their specific evolutionary adaptation and neural organization have led to the development of unique problem-solving strategies.

For example, modern research points out that primates are capable of solving complex logical tasks and using tools very effectively. As noted in one study, "primates can solve complex tasks by demonstrating problem-solving skills in logic and the use of tools. These results indicate that primates possess high intellectual capacities that may exceed expectations and even be comparable to human abilities in some aspects" (source: link txt). This suggests that their cognitive system is adapted for quickly analyzing specific situations and making optimal decisions within their natural environment.

In addition, observations of primate social behavior and elements of conscious activity compel a re-examination of the traditional perception of their intelligence. As stated in one source, "Continuous studies of the cognitive abilities of primates, such as gorillas and chimpanzees, reveal the presence of elements of conscious activity, challenging the traditional view of them as exclusively instinct-driven beings. These abilities are particularly noticeable in tasks related to social interactions and the use of tools. These findings force a reconsideration of the boundaries between human and primate intelligence" (source: link txt). This indicates that in situations demanding quick and precise responses, whether socially or practically, primates can demonstrate exceptionally high efficiency.

It is also worth noting that some experiments where primates are trained to use sign language or other forms of symbolic communication highlight their high intellectual flexibility. Researchers assert, "Psychological studies show that children with higher intelligence levels learn speech skills and abstract thinking more effectively. In his work, Pavlov provided examples of using sign language to teach primates, which demonstrates their high intellectual capacities. For instance, gorillas and chimpanzees can learn to use gestures to communicate and even form simple sentences using sign language. These observations point to a high degree of intellectual flexibility in some primates" (source: link txt).

Thus, the manifestation of such intelligence in some primates may be attributed to their specialized neural organization and adaptations developed under the influence of their natural environment and social factors. These features enable them to perform in specific tasks—whether logical reasoning, tool use, or social interaction—in ways that, in narrow aspects, can outperform human capabilities.

Supporting citation(s):
"The commonly accepted notion of primates as exclusively instinctive beings with limited cognitive potential is beginning to change in light of new research. For example, primates can solve complex tasks by demonstrating the resolution of logical problems and tool use. These results indicate that primates possess high intellectual capacities that may exceed expectations and even be comparable to human abilities in some aspects." (source: link txt)

"Continuous study of the cognitive abilities of primates, such as gorillas and chimpanzees, reveals the presence of elements of conscious activity that challenge the traditional view of them as solely instinctive beings. These abilities are particularly prominent in tasks related to social interactions and tool use. These findings compel a rethinking of the boundaries between human and primate intelligence." (source: link txt)

"Psychological studies show that children with higher intelligence levels learn speech skills and abstract thinking more effectively... These observations indicate a high degree of intellectual flexibility in some primates." (source: link txt)