Frans de Waal
Primate Behavior Researcher | Pioneering Insights on Cooperation and Diversity
About
Frans de Waal is a pioneering primatologist and ethologist who has transformed our understanding of social behavior in chimpanzees and other primates. As a professor at Emory University, his decades of field research have revealed how our closest animal relatives resolve conflicts, share resources, and cooperate - often in surprisingly human-like ways. De Waal's TED talks have reached millions, sharing eye-opening lessons from the natural world that challenge assumptions about the roots of morality, fairness, and community.
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The surprising science of alpha males
In this fascinating look at the "alpha male," primatologist Frans de Waal explores the privileges and costs of power while drawing surprising parallels between how humans and primates choose their leaders. His research reveals some of the unexpected capacities of alpha males -- generosity, empathy, even peacekeeping -- and sheds light on the power struggles of human politicians. "Someone who is big and strong and intimidates and insults everyone is not necessarily an alpha male," de Waal says.
Frans de Waal at How To Academy 2022
Frans de Waal at Hay Festival 2019
| Event | Year | Location |
|---|---|---|
| How To Academy | 2022 | |
| Hay Festival | 2019 | |
| TED | 2017 | 🇨🇦Vancouver, Canada |
| TEDxPeachtree 2011 | 2011 |
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