Fear, love, and hunger were the agents that developed the wits of the lower animals, as they were, of course, the prime factors in developing the intelligence of man.

The quote "Fear, love, and hunger were the agents that developed the wits of the lower animals, as they were, of course, the prime factors in developing the intelligence of man" by John Burroughs explores the idea that basic instincts have played a key role in the development of intelligence, both in animals and humans. Burroughs, an American naturalist and essayist, suggests that the forces of fear, love, and hunger are primal motivators that drive survival and, ultimately, the evolution of cognitive abilities. These instincts push living beings to adapt and develop the necessary skills to navigate and thrive in their environments.

Burroughs' perspective highlights the adaptive nature of intelligence. He argues that it is not simply abstract thinking or reasoning that leads to intellectual growth, but rather the practical need to respond to survival challenges. Fear teaches creatures to avoid danger, hunger drives them to find food, and love or attachment fosters the social bonds needed for cooperation and reproduction. Over time, these basic drives led to the development of more complex forms of problem-solving, communication, and social organization.

In humans, these forces still play a significant role in shaping our behaviors and cognitive evolution. Love can foster empathy and cooperation, while fear leads to the development of protective strategies and the ability to assess risks. Hunger, both literally and metaphorically, drives innovation, ambition, and the desire to improve living conditions. According to Burroughs, these primal forces continue to shape human intelligence in profound ways, even as we become more advanced in our thinking.

Ultimately, Burroughs is suggesting that intelligence is not just a product of conscious thought but is deeply rooted in the basic, instinctual needs that have driven life forward since the beginning. The quote underscores the importance of evolutionary pressures in shaping both animal and human minds, highlighting how our most fundamental instincts have helped us adapt and survive throughout history.