The most perfect ape cannot draw an ape; only man can do that; but, likewise, only man regards the ability to do this as a sign of superiority.

Summary

This quote by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle highlights the unique quality of human beings - the capacity for self-reflection and self-awareness. While the most sophisticated ape may possess various abilities, it lacks the ability to create a representation of its own species. However, what sets humans apart is not only their ability to create such depictions but also their tendency to consider this skill as a measure of their superiority over other beings. This quote suggests that humans attribute significance and self-worth to their ability to perform tasks or possess talents that are distinctively their own.

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