16 August 2012

Ape imitation

“Contrary to general belief, humans imitate apes more than the reverse” – Frans de Waal, Dutch primatologist.

Did you think that caring about the well-being of others was only a human trait? Think again: moral behaviour (empathy, cooperation, fairness and reciprocity) can actually be observed and tested among our distant cousins. Watch this surprising TED talk by Frans de Waal to know more:

Photos: orangutans in Singapore Zoo – the baby orangutan made me laugh in its persistence to get something to eat from its calm and impassive mother.