OUR INNER APES: EVOLUTION OF HUMAN EMPATHY

Human empathy is based on the evolution of the social brain in monkeys, apes, and prehistoric hominids.  Six million years of social behavior provides evidence for this aspect of our moral nature.  How does this relate to values and actions in our present day lives?

Morris Waxler is a member of UUFDC.  He has a Ph.D. in psychology, brain and behavior and an enduring interest in evolution and religion.  His reflections are based in part on The Singing Neanderthals (Steven Mithen) and Our Inner Ape (Frans de Waal). 

Today’s talk is Part 1 of a two-part series on the origins of empathy and compassion. Part 2 (February 17) will be given by Carolyn Zahn Waxler.

Music: Gerri Friedberg
Service Leader: Cyndy Stiehl