@leaky20, I only learnt last year that bonobos are as much like us genetically as are chimpazees. I have become increasingly interested in them ever since. Particularly after learning, just as you mentioned, that they are much, much more peaceful than those crazy, selfish chimps :) . If I am not mistaken their societies are also matriarchal (don't quote me on this, though!)

Badura's Bobo Doll study is a very relevant one in the context of this discussion! The question I feel compelled to raise here is : would those children copy the violent behavior towards a living being? The bobo doll elicits no compassionate feelings. Schopenhauer stated that compassion is at the basis of morality. I agree with it :) Anyhow, I suppose we will never know. Such experiment will never be conducted 😛

It is so great to hear from you @leaky20. Thank you very much for taking the time to read and leave me this wonderful, insightful comment. I trust you and your wife are both doing great. I wish you both a peaceful, happy summer!

All the best,
Abigail