Awareness comes last, or first?

I've heard a scientist on tv say that we humans are very complex and advanced creatures on this planet. I have to agree with that. But he also said that we are so advanced that we have developed awareness. Now that part I can't agree with. My dog is aware of me and especially so at feeding time. When I first came to western Australia I saw what is known as a meat ant. They are about an inch long and will give quite a bite. As I saw it I bent down for a closer look and immediately it backed up and reared it's front legs up in a defensive posture. It was quite obvious that this ant was aware of my presence.