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There are one hundred and ninety-three living species of…

“There are one hundred and ninety-three living species of monkeys and apes. One hundred and ninety-two of them are covered with hair. The exception is a naked ape self-named Homo sapiens. The zoologist now has to start making comparisons. Where else is nudity at a premium.” quote by Desmond Morris
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“There are one hundred and ninety-three living species of monkeys and apes. One hundred and ninety-two of them are covered with hair. The exception is a naked ape self-named Homo sapiens. The zoologist now has to start making comparisons. Where else is nudity at a premium.”

Desmond Morris

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Humans are the only hairless primates, making nudity a distinctive cultural and biological marker.

In simple terms: Humans lack fur unlike other primates.

Key Takeaway

Explore how nakedness shapes identity.

Themes

anthropology biology culture

Mood

curious analytical

Type

scientific observational

When to use this quote

  • fashion trends
  • body positivity
  • anthropological research
  • media representation

Key Concepts

evolutionary theory social norms

Questions to Reflect On

  • Why do societies regulate nakedness?
  • What does hairlessness reveal about humanity?
A Different Perspective

Nudity can be both liberating and stigmatized.

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