The Bonobo Difference

Once classified as "pygmy chimpanzees," bonobos (Pan paniscus) are recognized as a distinct species. Genetically, they share a similar lineage with us as with chimpanzees, but their behaviors diverge significantly. Unlike territorial chimpanzees, bonobos exhibit cooperative behaviors when different groups encounter one another. Over a two-year study, researchers observed 95 interactions among bonobo tribes, with some lasting only an hour while others continued for days—once even lasting two weeks.

During these interactions, bonobos behaved as if they were part of a single troop. They groomed one another, shared food, and worked together to fend off threats such as snakes.

Chimpanzees vs. Bonobos: Social Structures

Chimpanzee societies are patriarchal, led by an alpha male who maintains dominance through power and cunning. Dominance displays often escalate to violence, especially when two troops overlap in territory rich with resources. Conversely, bonobos have a matriarchal structure, led by an alpha female who fosters a nurturing environment. They do not engage in violent coalitions; rather, they tend to resolve conflicts through sexual behaviors—including homosexual interactions—which serve both reproductive and recreational purposes.

In contrast, chimpanzee killings occur opportunistically, as male groups patrol borders to eliminate isolated rivals. This hunting strategy allows them to expand their territory, claiming food and mates from neighboring troops. On the other hand, bonobos forage in larger groups, minimizing their chances for lethal confrontations.

Democracy in the Primate Kingdom

Humans are often referred to as “the naked ape,” sharing nearly 99% of our DNA with both chimpanzees and bonobos. Like chimps, we display fierce loyalty to our groups and can be cunning in conflict. However, akin to bonobos, we are also capable of forming cooperative relationships with those outside our kinship circles, driven by friendliness and mutual goals.

Human nature oscillates between these two tendencies, the “inner chimp” and the “inner bonobo.” While these traits served our ancestors well, they may not be suitable for today’s challenges. Carl Sagan argued that some aspects of our nature, once adaptive, may now be counterproductive in our current context.

The philosophical debate on whether humans are inherently good or evil has persisted for centuries. Both perspectives hold truth; we are social animals capable of both kindness and cruelty. Our institutions can either cultivate our better qualities or exacerbate our worst traits.

Constructing Better Institutions

Today, we possess vast knowledge regarding our nature and how various social structures affect our behavior. We can design institutions that diminish our inclination toward dominance while enhancing our collaborative instincts.

Some, like Jordan Peterson and Jonathan Haidt, view the alpha figure as a necessary force. While an alpha may bring about order and resolve conflicts, bonobo societies offer an alternative: peaceful conflict resolution without the need for authoritarian hierarchies.

Trumpism epitomizes chimpanzee-like politics, focused on territorial control and security through hierarchies built on force. This approach, however, is fundamentally authoritarian and cannot adapt to broader societal needs.

In contrast, liberalism aligns with bonobo principles, emphasizing democracy, trust, and cooperation. This perspective demonstrates that values such as freedom and equality are not in opposition, but rather reinforce one another.

As we face existential threats like climate change and nuclear proliferation, it's evident that we must lean towards our inner bonobo, fostering collaboration rather than yielding to our inner chimp.