Study Reveals Chimpanzees Show Empathy Comparable to Bonobos

A comprehensive study by Durham University challenges the long-held belief that bonobos are inherently more empathic than chimpanzees by finding both species console distressed peers at similar rates. Over 1,400 hours of observation of 90 apes across two sanctuaries revealed that behaviors such as embracing, hand-holding, and touching are common forms of consolation in both species, much like in humans. The research highlights that emotional sensitivity emerges early in ape development, with younger apes—especially young males and close friends among chimpanzees and younger individuals among bonobos—being more likely to offer or receive comfort. Interestingly, the greatest variation in consolatory behaviors was found within each species rather than between them. These findings suggest that empathy and social sensitivity are more nuanced among apes than previously assumed and may provide new insights into the evolution of human social behavior. The study underscores the need for further research on individual and group differences in ape empathy.