Empathy in apes challenges stereotypes

[WORLD] Bonobos are frequently cast as gentle peacemakers who use sexual behaviour to ease tensions, while chimpanzees are often portrayed as aggressive and domineering. But does this contrast truly reflect reality?

To investigate, researchers from Durham University conducted 1,400 hours of observational study on 90 primates residing in sanctuaries—40 bonobos at Lola ya Bonobo in the Democratic Republic of Congo and 50 chimpanzees at Zambia’s Chimfunshi Wildlife Orphanage. Their goal was to examine how these great apes respond to naturally stressful situations, particularly during interpersonal conflict.

The findings challenge entrenched assumptions about the emotional lives of these primates. While bonobos have long been seen as the more peaceful of the two species—often resolving disputes through sex—chimpanzees have historically been labeled as more aggressive and hierarchical. Yet the study suggests these behavioural differences may not be as pronounced as once believed.

Researchers found that both species show comparable levels of consolation behaviour. “Bonobos have often been described as the more empathic ape, while chimpanzees are viewed as more violent and authoritarian. But we found that chimpanzees are just as likely to comfort one another as bonobos,” said Dr. Jake Brooker, the study’s lead author. Age appears to be a key factor, with younger individuals in both species more likely to initiate comforting gestures.

The research also draws attention to the influence of social dynamics and individual roles within primate groups. Among bonobos, young individuals are both frequent comforters and recipients of comfort. In chimpanzees, the role of consoler typically falls to young males and those with close social bonds. These acts of empathy—such as embracing, hand-holding, and gentle touches—mirror the kind of behaviour seen in humans.

“Like people, bonobos and chimpanzees can show empathy in nuanced ways that depend on the individual, the group context, and the surrounding social culture,” said Dr. Brooker. Professor Zanna Clay, senior author and a psychologist at Durham University, added: “While empathy is a cornerstone of human interaction, our findings suggest this capacity is also deeply embedded in our closest living relatives. This points to the likelihood that our last common ancestor shared these same empathic traits.”

Beyond primatology, the implications of the study shed light on the evolutionary origins of human empathy and social behaviour. By comparing the emotional lives of bonobos, chimpanzees, and humans, scientists can better understand how these traits have developed and why they persist. The research underscores the role of empathy in building social bonds and ensuring group cohesion—qualities vital not just for primates, but for many social species.

Following these results, the team hopes to expand their work to include other primate populations and environments, particularly in the wild. Their findings suggest that humanity’s ties to great apes extend beyond shared DNA to encompass emotional capacities that have shaped the evolution of complex social behaviour. In both bonobos and chimpanzees, compassion is not just an abstract concept—it’s a lived experience.