EAN: 9780393347791

THE BONOBO AND THE ATHEIST - IN SEARCH OF HUMAN...

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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