On Atheists and Bonobos

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:


Denying Our Inner Animal - Cartesian dogs, religious baggage and false dichotomies

Morality and Evolution - Between chimpanzees and bonobos

The Demise of Veneer Theory - Science discovers human cooperation and empathy

The Roots of Religion - A sociological approach

Community Concern - Chimpanzee groups and Golden Rules

 Beyond Theatrics - Reconciling science, religion and mortality

American Exceptionalism - Speculations on religiosity

Testing Morality - Fairness, cooperation, risk-taking and more

Reasons for Optimism - Positive behaviour throughout the animal world

Breaking Down Barriers - Towards species continuity



About 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/).