Many people who lack scientific imagination don't see any further meaningful progress in evolution. Ah but a good number have. Some have imagined how humans would evolve in the years ahead, providing that we don't wipe ourselves out. Think of the silly comics that show humans with grossly enlarged forehead to denote super-intelligence, or people who regularly use telepathy or telekinesis. Others have imagined animal species who have evolved to the point of human intelligence and mobility or more. Kamandi comics from DC come to mind:
http://www.thecomicshop.com.au/...
Now let's get more serious. How do the scientific people here foresee evolution happening in the years or eons ahead? Do you see any species evolving to the point that they can develop human-like intelligence or better? Let's make it more interesting. Are there any non-primate species (no apes or monkeys) that could develop to that point? Imagine bears, cats, spiders, bats, wolves, elephants, whales, birds, et al evolving to the point that they could develop language, culture, technological abilities, customs, government, and other goodies inspired by the evolved frontal cortex.
What do you think the general personality of each species may be like? Will they follow similar paths as humans or differ? Will they be doomed to be as warlike and teetering on the tightrope between enlightenment and abyss?
I'm just imagining a planet dominated by humanoid bears or cats. I'd imagine that like humans, if not more, aggression will be one of the primary traits. However, there still ought to be a wide spectrum of personality types throughout. While many cat people may be using humans/other primates as source of nutrition or amusement, I chuckle thinking of some radical cat students fighting for human rights (vice versa of PETA).
Which species besides primates do you believe are most likely to evolve to the point of human intelligence or better? Let your speculations run wild.