Affair Quote by Desmond Morris
“It must be stressed that there is nothing insulting about looking at people as animals. We are animals, after all. Homo sapiens is a species of primate, a biological phenomenon dominated by biological rules, like any other species. Human nature is no more than one particular kind of animal nature. Agreed, the human species is an extraordinary animal; but all other species are also extraordinary animals, each in their own way, and the scientific man-watcher can bring many fresh insights to the study of human affairs if he can retain this basic attitude of evolutionary humility.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Naked Ape, Desmond Morris, 1967
Humans are animals like any other species; recognizing this promotes humility and broader insight into human behavior.
In simple terms: Humans are animals; humility helps us understand ourselves.
Key Takeaway
Adopt an evolutionary perspective.
Themes
humility
evolution
biology
anthropology
Mood
reflective
analytical
Type
philosophical
scientific
educational
When to use this quote
- anthropology
- psychology
- education
- policy making
- environmental ethics
Key Concepts
speciesism
comparative analysis
biological determinism
Questions to Reflect On
- How does seeing humans as animals change your view of society?
- What limits does cultural bias impose on scientific study?
A Different Perspective
Humans have complex cultures that may limit purely biological views.
