The “peaceful bonobo” myth may be somewhat overstated
For decades, the story has been that chimpanzees are a violent species while bonobos have earned a reputation as the peaceful ape. This contrast has been so influential that scientists use it to think about the origins of human nature itself. If chimpanzees represent the aggressive side of our evolutionary heritage, perhaps bonobos show an alternative path, one where cooperation and tolerance took the lead. But new research suggests the reality may be more complicated.
