The Bonobo and the Atheist: In Search of Humanism Among the Primates

Nonfiction, Science & Nature, Science, Biological Sciences, Zoology, Evolution
Cover of the book The Bonobo and the Atheist: In Search of Humanism Among the Primates by Frans de Waal, W. W. Norton & Company
View on Amazon View on AbeBooks View on Kobo View on B.Depository View on eBay View on Walmart
Author: Frans de Waal ISBN: 9780393089196
Publisher: W. W. Norton & Company Publication: March 25, 2013
Imprint: W. W. Norton & Company Language: English
Author: Frans de Waal
ISBN: 9780393089196
Publisher: W. W. Norton & Company
Publication: March 25, 2013
Imprint: W. W. Norton & Company
Language: English

In this lively and illuminating discussion of his landmark research, esteemed primatologist Frans de Waal argues that human morality is not imposed from above but instead comes from within. Moral behavior does not begin and end with religion but is in fact a product of evolution.

For many years, de Waal has observed chimpanzees soothe distressed neighbors and bonobos share their food. Now he delivers fascinating fresh evidence for the seeds of ethical behavior in primate societies that further cements the case for the biological origins of human fairness. Interweaving vivid tales from the animal kingdom with thoughtful philosophical analysis, de Waal seeks a bottom-up explanation of morality that emphasizes our connection with animals. In doing so, de Waal explores for the first time the implications of his work for our understanding of modern religion. Whatever the role of religious moral imperatives, he sees it as a “Johnny-come-lately” role that emerged only as an addition to our natural instincts for cooperation and empathy.

But unlike the dogmatic neo-atheist of his book’s title, de Waal does not scorn religion per se. Instead, he draws on the long tradition of humanism exemplified by the painter Hieronymus Bosch and asks reflective readers to consider these issues from a positive perspective: What role, if any, does religion play for a well-functioning society today? And where can believers and nonbelievers alike find the inspiration to lead a good life?

Rich with cultural references and anecdotes of primate behavior, The Bonobo and the Atheist engagingly builds a unique argument grounded in evolutionary biology and moral philosophy. Ever a pioneering thinker, de Waal delivers a heartening and inclusive new perspective on human nature and our struggle to find purpose in our lives.

View on Amazon View on AbeBooks View on Kobo View on B.Depository View on eBay View on Walmart

In this lively and illuminating discussion of his landmark research, esteemed primatologist Frans de Waal argues that human morality is not imposed from above but instead comes from within. Moral behavior does not begin and end with religion but is in fact a product of evolution.

For many years, de Waal has observed chimpanzees soothe distressed neighbors and bonobos share their food. Now he delivers fascinating fresh evidence for the seeds of ethical behavior in primate societies that further cements the case for the biological origins of human fairness. Interweaving vivid tales from the animal kingdom with thoughtful philosophical analysis, de Waal seeks a bottom-up explanation of morality that emphasizes our connection with animals. In doing so, de Waal explores for the first time the implications of his work for our understanding of modern religion. Whatever the role of religious moral imperatives, he sees it as a “Johnny-come-lately” role that emerged only as an addition to our natural instincts for cooperation and empathy.

But unlike the dogmatic neo-atheist of his book’s title, de Waal does not scorn religion per se. Instead, he draws on the long tradition of humanism exemplified by the painter Hieronymus Bosch and asks reflective readers to consider these issues from a positive perspective: What role, if any, does religion play for a well-functioning society today? And where can believers and nonbelievers alike find the inspiration to lead a good life?

Rich with cultural references and anecdotes of primate behavior, The Bonobo and the Atheist engagingly builds a unique argument grounded in evolutionary biology and moral philosophy. Ever a pioneering thinker, de Waal delivers a heartening and inclusive new perspective on human nature and our struggle to find purpose in our lives.

More books from W. W. Norton & Company

Cover of the book On the Nature of Things by Frans de Waal
Cover of the book How to Build an Igloo: And Other Snow Shelters by Frans de Waal
Cover of the book The Illustrated Dictionary of Boating Terms: 2000 Essential Terms for Sailors and Powerboaters (Revised Edition) by Frans de Waal
Cover of the book A Faker's Dozen: Stories by Frans de Waal
Cover of the book The Hundred Days (Vol. Book 19) (Aubrey/Maturin Novels) by Frans de Waal
Cover of the book The Change Book: How Things Happen by Frans de Waal
Cover of the book The Quest for Immortality: Science at the Frontiers of Aging by Frans de Waal
Cover of the book 21st Century Capitalism by Frans de Waal
Cover of the book Prime Mover: A Natural History of Muscle by Frans de Waal
Cover of the book Flash Boys: A Wall Street Revolt (preview) by Frans de Waal
Cover of the book Coming Home to Eat: The Pleasures and Politics of Local Foods by Frans de Waal
Cover of the book The Language of Things: Understanding the World of Desirable Objects by Frans de Waal
Cover of the book What Blest Genius?: The Jubilee That Made Shakespeare by Frans de Waal
Cover of the book Einstein's Clocks, Poincare's Maps: Empires of Time by Frans de Waal
Cover of the book Non-Drug Treatments for ADHD: New Options for Kids, Adults, and Clinicians by Frans de Waal
We use our own "cookies" and third party cookies to improve services and to see statistical information. By using this website, you agree to our Privacy Policy