The Moral Monkey
The Times Online has an article on some recent studies that show that monkeys and apes have morals. Well, what do you know. Now all us simians have something more to talk about at our family reunions!
“In a series of studies scientists have found that monkeys and apes can make judgments about fairness, offer altruistic help and empathize when a fellow animal is ill or in difficulties. They even appear to have consciences and the ability to remember obligations. “
This is more than some humans I have known.
I really think these monkeys should be applauded. They have successfully developed a sense of morals without a god belief.
“The research implies that morality is not a uniquely human quality and suggests it arose through evolution. That could mean the strength of our consciences is partly determined by our genes. “
Preaching to the choir, here.
“Such findings are likely to antagonize fundamentalist religious groups.”
Well, I hate to be pessimistic, but that’s not too hard to do. They get pissed at the tiniest things.
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February 17, 2009 at 12:26 PM
Whoah! Impressive! Who’d have thought that monkeys were more evolved than atheists? Oh wait, never mind – old news.