A new study by researchers at Johns Hopkins University has revealed that some great apes, specifically bonobos, can recognize when a human partner lacks knowledge and will communicate information to help them. This ability, known as theory of mind, was previously thought to be unique to humans.
The study involved three male bonobos. In the experiment, a researcher sat across from a bonobo while another person hid a treat under one of three cups. When the researcher saw where the treat was hidden, the bonobo would wait for him to retrieve it. However, when the researcher did not see where the treat was placed, the bonobo would point to the correct cup to assist him.
This seemingly simple experiment provided compelling evidence that non-human primates can understand when others are ignorant. Co-author Chris Krupenye, an assistant professor at Johns Hopkins, described it as "one of the clearest pieces of evidence that a non-human primate understands when someone else lacks knowledge."
Kanzi, another bonobo involved in the research Ape Initiative/Johns Hopkins University
The discovery builds on previous research into theory of mind in chimpanzees and suggests that bonobos possess a similar cognitive ability. The researchers now plan to investigate bonobos’ motivations for sharing information and whether they are intentionally trying to change their partner’s mental state or beliefs.
The findings also highlight the complexity of bonobos' social lives, emphasizing the importance of conservation efforts for this endangered species. While the study was conducted with captive bonobos communicating with humans, experts acknowledge its significance in deepening our understanding of primate cognition.
The study was published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
