On Atheists and Bonobos - A Conversation With Frans De Waal

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 "the good"?

Do we learn from others what is "wrong"? 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://ideas-on-film.com/ideasroadshow/.