New research has provided insight into how bonobos and chimpanzees demonstrate empathy, challenging previous beliefs about their social behaviors. Scientists have long known that comforting distressed peers is a key marker of empathy; however, a direct comparison between these two ape species had never been conducted—until now.
Led by Dr. Jake Brooker, researchers observed 90 sanctuary-living apes across two locations: 40 bonobos at the Lola ya Bonobo sanctuary in the Democratic Republic of Congo and 50 chimpanzees at the Chimfunshi Wildlife Orphanage in Zambia. Over 1,400 hours, scientists observed how individuals reacted when a peer showed distress, such as after a physical altercation.
Key Findings: Empathy Across Species
The study found that bonobos and chimpanzees console at similar rates, with greater variation within each species than between them. This discovery contradicts the long-standing assumption that bonobos are the more empathic ape, suggesting that empathy manifests differently across individuals.
- Bonobos: Younger individuals are more likely to comfort others and receive more consolation.
- Chimpanzees: Young males and close social partners offer the most comfort.
Genes play a major role in empathy, study
Both species display empathy in human-like ways, using physical contact such as embracing, hand grasping, and touching to soothe their companions.
Scientists believe that further studies on different ape groups in diverse environments could provide deeper insights into the evolution of empathy and social bonding. Researchers may uncover clues about how human social behavior developed over time by studying our closest living relatives.
This groundbreaking study sheds light on the complex emotional lives of primates, reshaping our understanding of empathy and the evolutionary forces that drive social connections.
Journal Reference:
- Jake S. Brooker, Christine Webb, Stephanie Kordon et al. Within-species variation eclipses between-species differences in Pan consolation. Evolution and Human Behavior. DOI: 10.1016/j.evolhumbehav.2025.106682
