Primates and Philosophers
：How Morality Evolved
( Princeton Science Library )
Publication subTitle ：How Morality Evolved
Publication series ：Princeton Science Library
Author： de Waal Frans;Macedo Stephen;Ober Josiah
Publisher： Princeton University Press
Publication year： 2009
E-ISBN: 9781400830336
P-ISBN(Paperback): 9780691124476
Subject： B82 Ethics ( Moral Philosophy )
Keyword： 普通生物学,社会学,伦理学(道德哲学),动物学
Language： ENG
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Description
Can virtuous behavior be explained by nature, and not by human rational choice? "It's the animal in us," we often hear when we've been bad. But why not when we're good? Primates and Philosophers tackles this question by exploring the biological foundations of one of humanity's most valued traits: morality.
In this provocative book, renowned primatologist Frans de Waal argues that modern-day evolutionary biology takes far too dim a view of the natural world, emphasizing our "selfish" genes and reinforcing our habit of labeling ethical behavior as humane and the less civilized as animalistic. Seeking the origin of human morality not in evolution but in human culture, science insists that we are moral by choice, not by nature.
Citing remarkable evidence based on his extensive research of primate behavior, de Waal attacks "Veneer Theory," which posits morality as a thin overlay on an otherwise nasty nature. He explains how we evolved from a long line of animals that care for the weak and build cooperation with reciprocal transactions. Drawing on Darwin, recent scientific advances, and his extensive research of primate behavior, de Waal demonstrates a strong continuity between human and animal behavior. He probes issues such as anthropomorphism and human responsibilities toward animals. His compelling account of how human morality evolved out of mammalian society will fascinate anyone who has ever wondered about the origins and reach of human g
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