Different. Male and Female Through the Eyes of a Primatologist

In the world of humans, as in the world of animals, representatives of different sexes behave differently. World-renowned primatologist Frans de Waal has been observing monkeys for over forty years in both the wild and research centers. In the pages of the book, he poses questions that lie at the heart of any discussion about gender identity.

By drawing analogies between animals and humans, the scientist questions many social stereotypes about men and women. In particular, can male aggression or
tendency towards dominance always be explained by biology? Or is it more imposed by society? The author contrasts the cruelty of chimpanzees with the peacefulness of bonobos, the leadership of males in one species of monkeys with the matriarchy of another. Relying on scientific data, de Waal proves: to understand the nature that determines
the difference between male and female principles, one must see all the diversity of qualities in primates and other mammals, without favoring any particular gender. We are different so that we can live together.