Chimpanzees are less likely to steal food from friends, suggesting a sense of social morality akin to humans.
Chimpanzees steal less from friends
A study published in the journal Evolution and Human Behavior found that chimpanzees are less likely to steal food from their friends than from unfamiliar individuals. Researchers conducted experiments where pairs of chimpanzees were placed together, with one having the opportunity to steal fruit from the other.Friendship in non-human primates
The study notes that while the idea of "friendship" among non-human primates is debated, with some researchers calling the term anthropomorphic, this is the first study to show that primates may prioritize relationships over immediate rewards like food. This suggests a previously unknown ability to suppress selfish behavior.Findings on chimpanzee behavior
The research found that chimpanzees stole food from their friends in 61 percent of cases, compared to 70 percent when the other individual was a mere acquaintance. This difference highlights a potential recognition of social bonds, even in non-human animals.Implications for human behavior
The findings suggest that chimpanzees may have social expectations of each other, similar to humans, which could be a foundation for the sense of fairness and morality seen in humans. Oded Ritov, the lead author of the study, noted that it was not obvious chimpanzees would act this way, emphasizing the significance of the discovery.Evolution of social norms
The study could provide insight into the origins of human norms regarding friendship and fairness. By showing that chimpanzees may have evolved social expectations, it opens new avenues for understanding how such behaviors might have developed in early human societies.
