On Humans cover image

On Humans

28 | A Natural History of Equality ~ Sarah Brosnan

Oct 18, 2023
In this thought-provoking discussion, primatologist Sarah Brosnan dives into her groundbreaking research on fairness and inequity aversion in monkeys. She explores the famous cucumber-throwing experiment, linking monkey frustrations with human social inequalities. The conversation covers topics like the potential for monkeys to adopt egalitarian norms and how fairness enhances cooperation. Brosnan also examines whether animals have concepts of property rights and what these behaviors reveal about human moral evolution, prompting a fascinating exploration of our shared nature.
01:10:14

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Quick takeaways

  • The podcast explores how primates, like monkeys, exhibit innate feelings of inequity, suggesting these sentiments may be biologically rooted rather than just human constructs.
  • Investigations into primate cooperation highlight that fairness dynamics significantly influence social interactions and reactions to inequality across species.

Deep dives

The Intersection of Biology and Equality

The discussion emphasizes the perception that biology and equality often clash, yet suggests a deeper exploration is warranted. Observations across various species reveal hierarchies and dominance, yet this doesn't inherently negate the values of equality. Rather than dismissing biology, understanding its role may unravel insights about human inequality. The podcast challenges listeners to reconsider their views on biology's influence on social dynamics, positing that examining animal behavior can inform our understanding of human equality.

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