Humans and Chimpanzees are Cousins
Many people think that humans are divine and made in the image of God. Yet, we see Chimpanzees are so very similar to us in so many ways. In fact they are more like human children than animals. If we are to classify chimpanzees as animals then humans are animals too. Some say that Humans should not be classified as animals and deserve a separate category, not so. But if you do not believe me then I suggest you check out the Chimpanzee and Human Communication Institute at Central Washington University in Washington State, USA;
You should read the entire website and watch some of the online videos as well and the book below is a Must Read too if you are interested in this particular subject and you will be fascinated as it is very interesting indeed. The book is called;
“Next of Kin” By Roger Fouts
http://www.cwu.edu/~cwuchci/next_of_kin_book.html
There is a very famous Chimpanzee which has been part of their study who goes by the name of Washoe and Washoe knows and was taught ASL American sign language and there are some incredible stories of emotion and near human empathy too. Here is a quote from his Book:
“Washoe has taught me that we are both a part of the natural world we share with all our fellow animals. She has taught me that personhood is something we share, and that personhood goes beyond species classifications. She has taught me that human arrogance is very lethal to our fellow beings on this planet, especially when it is combined with human ignorance. She has taught me that the most profound scientific discoveries are often based on the most humble approach. She has taught me that compassion is one of our dearest traits, and that we should value it above all others, including intelligence. She helped me to realize that if we humans do not embrace and respect our fellow species on this planet, then we stand a good chance of destroying the whole thing.”
Roger also talks about Chimpanzees inventing tools and then making them to complete tasks all by themselves without coaxing. They think, plan, strategize and react. They are practically human except for the few differences in DNA. You will be blown away and then you will see my points and comments and why I made them.
I further recall similar empathy stories in Jane Goodale’s notes and her book as well and remember mention of such in one of her talks at the Tucson, AZ. You see folks Humans and Chimpanzees really are our cousins. Consider this in 2006.
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