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Our Inner Ape
The Best And Worst Of Human Nature
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Our Inner Ape
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See moreAn engrossing narrative that explores what the behaviour of apes can teach us about ourselves and each other
'A profoundly illuminating book on humans by a great primatologist' John Gray, author of Straw Dogs
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Description
We have long attributed man's violent, aggressive, competitive nature to his animal ancestry. But what if we are just as given to cooperation, empathy, and morality by virtue of our genes?
From a scientist and writer whom E.O. Wilson has called 'the world authority on primate social behaviour' comes a lively look at the most provocative aspects of human nature: power, sex, violence, kindness, and morality through our two closest cousins in the ape family.
For nearly 20 years, Frans de Waal has worked with both the famously aggressive chimpanzee and the lesser-known egalitarian, erotic, matriarchal bonobo, two species whose DNA is nearly identical to that of humans. He brings these apes to life on every page, revealing their personalities, relationships, and power struggles, creating an engrossing narrative that explores what their behaviour can teach us about ourselves and each other.
Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?
Frans de Waal's Our Inner Ape is praised for providing a fascinating exploration of human nature through the lens of primate behaviour. Critics highlight de Waal's engaging prose and insightful observations, crediting him with reviving interest in discussions about human evolution and behaviour. The book's warmth, profound illumination, and captivating narrative style are recurrent themes in reviews, and it effectively bridges the gap between science and popular understanding.
Book Details
INFORMATION
ISBN: 9781862078826
Publisher: Granta Books
Format: Paperback / softback
Date Published: 04 September 2006
Country: United Kingdom
Imprint: Granta Books
Illustration: Black and white photographs
Audience: General / adult
DIMENSIONS
Spine width: 18.0mm
Width: 129.0mm
Height: 198.0mm
Weight: 230g
Pages: 300
About the Author
Frans de Waal, Ph.D. is a biologist and ethologist. His 5 previous books, translated into 14 languages, include The Ape and The Sushi Master, a New York Times Notable Book, and Peacemaking Among Primates. His research has been funded by NATO, the Guggenheim Foundation, and The National Geographic Society.
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