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The bonobo and the atheist : in search of humanism among the primates
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The bonobo and the atheist : in search of humanism among the primates

by Frans de Waal

This work examines the evolutionary origins of human morality through the study of primate behaviour. It argues that empathy and cooperation are biological instincts rather than religious impositions, while considering the role of religion in modern society.

Accession 13683 ISBN 9780393073775 Publisher W. W. Norton & Co.
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TAGS
Curated Derived
Culture Human Evolution Life Sciences Philosophy Psychology Religion Science Social Sciences
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position_updated_at
2026-06-04 14:46
orientation
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Hard Back
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LOCATION HISTORY
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Identity

name→ title
The bonobo and the atheist : in search of humanism among the primates
vernon_id
21864
accession_no→ accession_number
13683
vernon_slug
the-bonobo-and-the-atheist-in-search-of-humanism-among-the-primates-frans-de-waal

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On Shelf
location_name
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location_reason
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isbn_issn→ isbn (when valid)
9780393073775

Descriptive

production_date
2013
object_type
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object_status
Accessioned
brief_description
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.

Subjects & people

authors→ author (initial fill only)
Frans de Waal
tags→ tags
Science, Psychology, Life sciences, Religion, Ethics, Philosophy, Culture, Evolution (Biology), Biology, Human evolution, Evolutionary psychology, Animal behaviour -- Evolution, Behaviour evolution, Social evolution, Cognitive psychology
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Cover image

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