A Better Ape

A Better Ape will transform evolutionary approaches to human morality and to human cultural evolution. With elegant, often stirring prose, and rigorous, scientifically-informed arguments, Kumar and Campbell not only illuminate the origins of human morality but also show how morality has driven human evolution. * Allen Buchanan, Laureate Professor of Philosophy, The University of Arizona *
Kumar and Campbell weave a tale of the past, present, and future of moral psychology by unifying some of the most compelling theories from philosophy, biology, psychology, comparative cognition, and anthropology. The story is masterfully told, and reading the book is like reading the end of a Sherlock Holmes story, when we learn how all the clues fit together. But this book isn't just for people who already have the pieces of the puzzle. Kumar and Campbell offer clear and concise descriptions of leading theories in human evolution and moral psychology, giving just enough background to allow anyone to come along for the ride. Their argument that Darwinism richly explains morality is an important contribution to the ongoing debates. * Kristin Andrews, Professor of Philosophy and Research Chair in Animal Minds, York University *
In this beautifully written book, Kumar and Campbell argue that evolution explains the emergence of morality, and, more strikingly, that human morality has subsequently played a key role in shaping our biological nature. A Better Ape manages that rare feat of making an important, novel contribution while also being a joy to read * Shaun Nichols, Professor of Philosophy and Director of Cognitive Science, Cornell University *
Written in a clear, accessible style, this book presents a compelling synthesis of the best ideas in contemporary evolutionary theory and moral philosophy. A brilliant example of how philosophical reflection on topics of perennial concern can be enriched through deep engagement with the human sciences. * Joseph Heath, Professor of Philosophy, University of Toronto *
Kumar (Boston Univ.) and Campbell (Dalhousie Univ.) are both scholars of philosophy and science (cognitive science and environmentalism, respectively) and in this excellent book, they explore the evolution of human morality as a biocultural adaptation and the resulting rise of collective living and human intelligence...this study is an important addition to the literature on human morality and intelligence. * Choice *
This is an exceptionally well-written book, the prose is crisp, clean, and elegant-and it draws on a wealth of research in evolutionary biology and psychology. * R. Paul Thompson, Quarterly Review of Biology *