This paper extends the Epic Cognition Theory (ECT) framework to non-human species, arguing that evolution is shaped not only by external genetic pressures but also by internal, dream-like proto-narratives. It proposes that these cognitive processes enable organisms to pre-rehearse and internally design adaptive physiological changes. Focusing on processes such as shedding (ecdysis) in snakes, dynamic color change in chameleons, and proto-symbolic imitation in bearded dragons, we argue that these biological events serve as concrete, bodily expressions of narrative-driven redesign. This work demonstrates that illness, healing, and adaptation involve a deeply conserved, narrative-driven process, highlighting the broad applicability of ECT in evolutionary biology and ethology. By defining "narratives" as neuroendocrine and behavioral simulations rather than human-like conscious experiences, the paper avoids anthropomorphism and offers a testable framework for studying the mind-body unity across the animal kingdom.
Sedat Büyük (Tue,) studied this question.