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Ancestors Quote by Frans de Waal

“Very long ago our ancestors had moral systems. Our current institutions are only a couple of thousand years old, which is really not old in the eyes of a biologist.” quote by Frans de Waal
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“Very long ago our ancestors had moral systems. Our current institutions are only a couple of thousand years old, which is really not old in the eyes of a biologist.”

Frans de Waal

About This Quote

Source Book: The Age of Empathy by Frans de Waal, 2009

Human moral systems are recent compared to deep evolutionary timescales, so institutions are young and fragile.

In simple terms: Our moral rules are new in evolutionary terms.

Key Takeaway

Recognize the limits of our institutions.

Themes

eity evolution institutions

Mood

reflective inquisitive

Type

philosophical analytical

When to use this quote

  • policy making
  • education reform
  • community building

Key Concepts

Anthropology social evolution

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we design institutions that endure?
  • What evolutionary insights can improve governance?
A Different Perspective

These systems may lack deep-rooted stability.

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