On Atheists and Bonobos - A Conversation with Frans de Waal (eBook)

This book is based on an in-depth filmed conversation between Howard Burton and primatologist Frans de Waal, Emory University, who is renowned for his work on the behaviour and social intelligence of primates. This thought-provoking conversation examines fascinating questions such as: Are we born with an innate sense of "e;the good"e;? Do we learn from others what is "e;wrong"e;? Does religion determine, or is it a result of, morality?This carefully-edited book includes an introduction, Aping Morality, and questions for discussion at the end of each chapter:I. Denying Our Inner Animal - Cartesian dogs, religious baggage and false dichotomiesII. Morality and Evolution - Between chimpanzees and bonobosIII. The Demise of Veneer Theory - Science discovers human cooperation and empathyIV. The Roots of Religion - A sociological approachV. Community Concern - Chimpanzee groups and Golden RulesVI. Beyond Theatrics - Reconciling science, religion and mortalityVII. American Exceptionalism - Speculations on religiosityVIII. Testing Morality - Fairness, cooperation, risk-taking and moreIX. Reasons for Optimism - Positive behaviour throughout the animal worldX. Breaking Down Barriers - Towards species continuityAbout Ideas Roadshow Conversations Series: This book is part of an expanding series of 100+ Ideas Roadshow conversations, each one presenting a wealth of candid insights from a leading expert in a focused yet informal setting to give non-specialists a uniquely accessible window into frontline research and scholarship that wouldn't otherwise be encountered through standard lectures and textbooks. For other books in this series visit our website: https://ideasroadshow.com/.