The Arrogant Ape: The Myth of Human Exceptionalism and Why It Matters

Harvard primatologist Webb debuts with a persuasive and accessible critique of anthropocentrism, which she describes as a Western ideology that erroneously depicts humans as “the most clever, moral, and capable species on earth.” She shares moving anecdotes from her fieldwork—where she has witnessed chimpanzees conveying trust and consoling each other when grieving—to demonstrate that humans aren’t the only beings who exhibit altruistic behavior, and explains that the idea that humans are cognitively superior is based on experiments skewed to favor humans; when comparing chimpanzees caged in human-made conditions to free people, chimps inevitably come up short. Webb argues that human exceptionalism is driving the present-day ecological crisis and that a less human-centric approach to understanding the world is necessary for “a richer, sustainable way of life.” She urges humans to relinquish their self-inflated top-dog status and recognize the symbiosis among organisms—like how plants produce oxygen humans need to breathe—that has made possible “most major events in the history of life on earth.” As global warming and wildlife destruction threaten planetary health, Webb makes a convincing case for humility. Though not as lyrical as Robin Wall Kimmerer or hard-hitting as Lynn Margulis—scientists with whom she shares many views—Webb joins their ranks with this vivid call to action. (Sept.)