Name: Why monkeys (and humans) are wired for fairness
Uploaded: 2020-12-10T15:50:23Z
Duration: 12 min 41 s
Description: Fairness matters ... to both people and primates. Sharing priceless footage of capuchin monkeys responding to perceived injustice, primatologist Sarah Brosnan explores why humans and monkeys evolved to care about equality -- and emphasizes the connection between a healthy, cooperative society and everyone getting their fair share.

Fairness matters ... to both people and primates. Sharing priceless footage of capuchin monkeys responding to perceived injustice, primatologist Sarah Brosnan explores why humans and monkeys evolved to care about equality -- and emphasizes the connection between a healthy, cooperative society and everyone getting their fair share.

Why monkeys (and humans) are wired for fairness

A deep sense of fairness shapes both human and primate behavior, driving cooperation and rebellion alike. Capuchin monkeys will reject rewards they once enjoyed if they see a peer get something better, even throwing away food in protest. In people, a desire for equality leads many to choose earning less money if it means not falling behind others. This instinct for balance is essential for maintaining trust and participation in all our social systems.