Frans de Waal is a is a Dutch primatologist and ethologist who studies the morality of the animal kingdom. His research with primates (and other mammals) reveals the strong innate understanding of empathy and reciprocity among apes. By revealing the biological predisposition to conflict resolution, cooperation, and inequity aversion in non-human species our own tendencies are laid bare. If chimps can feel compassion and understand what is fairness then our vices require more justification than the expletive offering of "it's human nature".
But as the saying goes, sometimes you have to see it to believe it so.....
Below is a Ted Talk where De Waal shows inequity aversion among Capuchin monkeys. The talk is remarkable and the video's cuteness factor is sure to satisfy your online downtime.
You can also read an excerpt from his book, The Age of Empathy: Nature's Lessons for a Kinder Society.
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