Inside the social minds -- and amazing memories -- of chimps and bonobos, with Laura Simone Lewis, PhD

Chimpanzees' and bonobos' social cognition is examined, focusing on similarities with humans. Dr. Laura Simone Lewis discusses research indicating these apes recognize former group mates, even after decades of separation, with a special emphasis on those with whom they had positive relationships. An eye-tracking study revealed that the apes looked longer at images of previous "friends." One bonobo, Louise, recognized her sister and nephew after 27 years apart. Lewis also explores social curiosity, using "curiosity boxes" to demonstrate that both children and chimpanzees prefer watching videos of social interactions over solitary activities. Further research indicated differing curiosity patterns in children based on gender and socialization.