LOS ANGELES, California -- Are dolphins nonhuman persons? Loyola Marymount University professor Thomas White insists they are. He presented his research at the American Association for the Advancement of Science conference in San Diego on Sunday.

White, the author of "In Defense of Dolphins: The New Frontier," spoke on a panel on the "Ethical Implications of Dolphin Intelligence: Dolphins as Nonhuman Persons."

White and other experts discussed scientific research showing that dolphins are highly intelligent, and, like humans, appear to be self-conscious, unique individuals with personalities, memories and a sense of self. They are vulnerable to pain and suffering and experience fear, dread and grief, the research suggests.

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