Meaning: The quote "Animals... don't have a sense of time. You just have to do things over and over with animals until they happen to do it right because they don't really know what you want" by Bruce Greenwood, an actor known for his work in film and television, sheds light on the behavioral tendencies of animals and the challenges of training them. This quote captures the essence of the unique communication gap that exists between humans and animals, particularly when it comes to training and understanding each other's behaviors.

When Greenwood mentions that animals "don't have a sense of time," he is referring to the fact that animals do not perceive time in the same way that humans do. While humans have a conscious awareness of time and can comprehend concepts such as schedules and deadlines, animals operate more on instinct and immediate stimuli. This fundamental difference in the perception of time can pose challenges when attempting to train animals, as they may not respond to time-based cues or expectations in the same way that humans do.

The second part of the quote highlights the repetitive nature of animal training. Greenwood suggests that with animals, one must repeatedly practice and reinforce behaviors until they happen to do it right. This speaks to the trial-and-error approach often involved in animal training, where consistency and patience are key. Animals may not inherently understand what humans want from them, and it is through repetition and positive reinforcement that desired behaviors can be elicited from them.

Greenwood's insight into animal behavior aligns with principles of animal training and behaviorism. It reflects the understanding that animals learn through repetition and reinforcement, and that the onus is on the trainer to effectively communicate their expectations to the animal. This process requires not only patience but also a deep understanding of the animal's natural instincts and tendencies.

From a scientific perspective, the quote resonates with the principles of operant conditioning, a form of learning in which an animal's behavior is modified through the use of positive and negative reinforcement. Through consistent repetition of desired behaviors and the rewarding of correct responses, animals can be trained to perform specific tasks or actions. This aligns with Greenwood's assertion that doing things over and over with animals is necessary to elicit the desired response.

Furthermore, the quote also touches upon the importance of empathy and understanding in animal training. By acknowledging that animals may not inherently know what humans want from them, Greenwood emphasizes the need for patience and empathy in the training process. This sentiment echoes the ethical considerations involved in animal training, emphasizing the importance of positive, non-coercive methods that prioritize the well-being of the animal.

In conclusion, Bruce Greenwood's quote offers valuable insights into the complexities of animal training and the unique dynamics that exist between humans and animals. It underscores the need for patience, repetition, and understanding in communicating with and training animals, shedding light on the nuances of this process. Whether in the context of working with domestic pets, wildlife, or animal actors in the entertainment industry, Greenwood's words serve as a reminder of the intricate nature of interspecies communication and the rewards that come with bridging the gap between humans and animals.

I hope this analysis provides a thorough understanding of the quote and its implications in the context of animal training and behavior.