The Naked Ape by Desmond Morris
"The Naked Ape" by Desmond Morris is a groundbreaking work that examines humans from a zoological standpoint, highlighting their similarities to other primates. In this exploration, Morris argues that Homo sapiens, the only hairless ape among 193 species, is fundamentally shaped by biological factors that dictate social structures, behaviors, and reproductive patterns. The book consists of seven chapters that cover various aspects of human existence, including sexual behavior, parenting, exploration, aggression, and feeding habits, culminating in a discussion on the relationship between humans and other animals.
Morris challenges the anthropocentric view of the universe, suggesting that human behavior is largely determined by biological impulses rather than cultural constructs. He expresses concern about overpopulation and environmental degradation, advocating for birth control as a necessary measure for sustainable living. While some readers found Morris's perspective enlightening, others considered it offensive, particularly those from religious backgrounds. However, the book significantly influenced fields such as psychology, sociology, and history, and resonated with a younger audience during the sexual revolution of the 1960s. Its impact extended to other media, including a 1973 film adaptation.
The Naked Ape by Desmond Morris
Published 1967
Author Desmond Morris
A book that explores humans as members of the ape family. Morris discusses Homo sapiens from a zoological perspective to help humans understand some of their biologically destructive limitations as a species.
Key Figures
Desmond Morris (1928- ), author
The Work
Desmond Morris, in his introduction to The Naked Ape: A Zoologist’s Study of the Human Animal, says that of the 193 species of monkeys and apes, all but one is covered with hair. He identifies Homo sapiens, the self-named ape, as the exception. In the seven chapters that follow, Morris studies humans from a zoological perspective, focusing on origins, sexual behavior, rearing, exploration, fighting, feeding, and comfort. The final chapter explores humans as they relate to other animals.
From a zoological perspective, Morris rejects the idea of a homocentric universe. He contends that humans’ biological nature has shaped their social structure and not the reverse. He argues that the human reproductive cycle has the potential to overpopulate the world, and therefore, those opposing birth control are engaged in “dangerous war mongering.” Finally, he cautions people that humans may destroy themselves if they do not control population and aggression and the resulting environmental damage both to other species and to the earth.
Impact
The Naked Ape’s view that the behavior of humans was determined largely by their biology and that humans share many characteristics with animals, particularly apes, was offensive to many readers and enlightening to others. Nevertheless, the book had an effect on teachings in psychology, sociology, and history. Although Christian fundamentalists and other groups objected to the book, many young people found in its pages a justification for the sexual revolution.
Related Work
In 1973, Playboy produced The Naked Ape, a film version of the best-selling book, starring Victoria Principal.
Additional Information
Naked Ape or Homo Sapiens? (1969), by John Lewis and Bernard Towers, presents a reply from a scientific and philosophical perspective to Morris’s The Naked Ape.