Frans de Waal Books

Frans de Waal (b. 1948) is a Dutch zoologist and ethologist with a focus on chimpanzees and bonobos. He is the director of the Living Links Center, an institute dedicated to researching the evolution of apes and humans. Time magazine ranked de Waal as number 79 among the most influential people in the world. In 2012, he received the Ig Nobel Prize for a study that showed that chimpanzees could identify other chimpanzees based on photographs of their behinds.

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 Books: The Age of Empathy by Frans de Waal

The Age of Empathy

Frans de Waal
Nature’s Lessons for a Kinder Society
4.2 (98 ratings)
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What's The Age of Empathy about?

The Age of Empathy (2009) debunks popular theories which suggest that human nature is inherently selfish, cut-throat and prone to violence. Evidence provided by biology, history and science makes clear that cooperation, peace and empathy are qualities that are as natural and innate to us as our less desirable traits.

Who should read The Age of Empathy?

  • Anthropologists curious about human nature
  • Sociologists interested in our innate biological ability to bond with others
  • Students interested in how social science, politics, evolution and biology intersect

What's The Bonobo and the Atheist about?

The Bonobo and the Atheist by Frans De Waal explores the origins of human morality and the relationship between religion and evolution. Through engaging storytelling and thought-provoking analysis, De Waal challenges the idea that morality is dependent on religion and delves into the ethical behavior observed in our closest primate relatives, the bonobos. This book offers a fresh perspective on the age-old debate between faith and reason.

Who should read The Bonobo and the Atheist?

  • Individuals interested in the evolutionary origins of morality
  • Readers who want to explore the intersection of science and religion
  • People curious about the behavior of bonobos and other primates

What's Are We Smart Enough to Know How Smart Animals Are? about?

Are We Smart Enough to Know How Smart Animals Are? by Frans De Waal challenges our assumptions about animal intelligence. Through engaging stories and scientific research, the book explores the cognitive abilities of various species and raises thought-provoking questions about our relationship with the animal kingdom.

Who should read Are We Smart Enough to Know How Smart Animals Are??

  • Curious individuals who are interested in understanding animal intelligence
  • Animal lovers who want to deepen their appreciation for the cognitive abilities of different species
  • Scientists and researchers looking to expand their knowledge of comparative cognition

What's Are We Smart Enough to Know How Smart Animals Are? about?

Are We Smart Enough to Know How Smart Animals Are? by Frans de Waal challenges the traditional view of animal intelligence. Through engaging anecdotes and scientific research, de Waal argues that many animals possess cognitive abilities that are often overlooked or underestimated. This thought-provoking book invites readers to reconsider their perceptions of animal intelligence and our relationship with the natural world.

Who should read Are We Smart Enough to Know How Smart Animals Are??

  • Anyone curious about the intelligence and cognitive abilities of animals

  • People interested in exploring the complex relationships between humans and other species

  • Readers who enjoy thought-provoking and scientifically grounded discussions


What's The Bonobo and the Atheist about?

The Bonobo and the Atheist by Frans de Waal explores the origins of morality and empathy in humans and animals. Through captivating stories and thought-provoking analysis, de Waal challenges the notion that morality is solely derived from religion, offering a compelling argument for the evolutionary roots of our ethical behavior.

Who should read The Bonobo and the Atheist?

  • Individuals interested in the evolution of morality and ethics

  • Readers curious about the similarities between humans and other primates

  • Those who question the role of religion in shaping moral behavior