So Like Us

"The structure of the chimpanzee brain is startlingly similar to that of the human." — Jane Goodall

Many aspects of chimpanzee behavior and social relations, emotional expression and needs, and intellectual abilities are similar to humans. There are, in particular, close parallels between the chimpanzee infant and the human child. Both have the capacity for endless romping and play, are highly curious, learn by observation and imitation, and above all, need constant reassurance and attention. For both, affectionate physical contact is essential for healthy development.

Various mental traits once regarded as unique to humans have been convincingly demonstrated in chimpanzees; reasoned thought, abstraction, generalization, symbolic representation, and concept of self. Non-verbal communications include hugs, kisses, pats on the back, and tickling. Many of their emotions, such as joy and sadness, fear and despair, are similar to or the same as our own. The longer-term studies of chimpanzee behavior in the field (at Gombe and Mahale Mountains national parks in Tanzania; Budongo Forest and Kabale Forest in Uganda; Tai Forest in Cote d'Ivoire; and forests in Guinea) along with other shorter studies in the wild and a number of studies in captivity, have taught us not only a great deal about the chimpanzee's place in nature, but our own, as well.

Once we admit that we are not the only beings with personality, reasoned thought, and above all, the ability to feel and express emotions such as joy, despair and empathy, then we develop a new respect for chimpanzees. The line between human and other non-human beings, once thought so sharp, becomes blurred. This forces us to a new respect also for the other amazing animal beings with whom we share the planet.