Alan observes chimp behavior with Frans de Waal.

"Do unto others as you would have done unto you." The Golden Rule, one of the first lessons we learn as children, is at the heart of many of the world's religions, political systems and societies- and not just human societies.

In "Chimps Getting Along," Alan Alda and renowned primate behaviorist Frans de Waal observe a group of chimps who live by the Golden Rule at the Yerkes Regional Primate Center in Atlanta, GA. The alpha male, Jimoh, and dominant female, Peony, keep the peace, while other adult chimps make sure the young ones know what's acceptable behavior in chimp society and what's not. It's not much different from a human tribal society.

Generous chimps are most likely to benefit from good deeds, like grooming.

When adolescent Georgia steals food from the group, she's left alone to eat in peace. But, according to de Waal, the chimps keep track of who's selfish and who's generous. Hoarders like Georgia will be rejected in times of need, while chimps who share are paid back with reciprocal sharing or grooming sessions. De Waal likens these behaviors to human morality.

Yet, there's hope for young Georgia; she's still learning. Reprimanded by Jimoh, Georgia sees the error of her ways and extends her hands in apology.

For more on this topic, see the web feature:
Enriching Lives