Frans de Waal: Primates and Philosopher

In this lecture, primatologist Frans de Waal shows how empathy comes naturally to a great variety of animals, including humans. By studying social behaviors in animals, such as bonding, herd instinct, forming of trusting alliances, expressions of consolation, and conflict resolution, he demonstrates that animals – and humans – are preprogrammed to reach out, questioning the assumption that humans are inherently selfish.

Frans B. M. de Waal is a Dutch/American biologist and primatologist known for his work on the behavior and social cognition of primates. His scientific work has been published in journals such as Science, Nature, Scientific American, and outlets specialized in animal behavior. His popular books – translated into over twenty languages – have made him one of the world’s most visible primatologists.