They are conscious all the time. Unlike humans whose breathing is automatic, dolphins make a decision to breathe. They also choose sex. Unlike animal species who breed from instinct, dolphins have sex for procreation and for pleasure. They enjoy their sexuality freely.
Males have voluntary erections.
He realized he was regarding an intelligent species, just as curious about humans as we are about dolphins. Dr. Lilly now envisions a time when humans will actually learn from dolphins. One of the biggest proponents of dolphins as teachers is Joan Ocean. She has been engaged in participatory research with them since 1989, and has logged thousands of hours in the water with them. She also leads dolphin communication workshops.