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."
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