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🇰🇷 South Korea /Health & Science

'Humans Are the Sexiest Ape'... Desmond Morris Dies at 98

From Hankyoreh · () Korean

Translated from Korean and summarized by DistantNews. Read the original for the full story.

At a glance

News Named sources Context piece
  • British zoologist Desmond Morris, known for his controversial "The Naked Ape" theory, has died at the age of 98.
  • Morris's 1967 book argued that humans, stripped of civilization, are driven by instinct, sparking debate and popularizing evolutionary perspectives.
  • He authored over 40 books and hosted numerous TV programs, studying animal and human behavior based on his observations at zoos.

The passing of Desmond Morris at 98 marks the end of an era for popular science communication. Morris, the renowned British zoologist, broadcaster, and author, captivated and challenged audiences worldwide with his provocative theories, most notably presented in his seminal 1967 work, "The Naked Ape."

"The Naked Ape" posited that humans, despite their sophisticated civilization, are fundamentally driven by primal instincts inherited from their primate ancestors. This radical perspective, which suggested that humans are essentially "the sexiest ape," reframed our understanding of human behavior, from mating rituals to social interactions. While it courted controversy and even faced bans from institutions like the Catholic Church, the book's accessibility and groundbreaking evolutionary viewpoint resonated with millions, selling over 20 million copies globally and translated into 28 languages.

Honestly, the actor and the scholar are constantly fighting within me, and this conflict has never been completely resolved. One takes precedence alternately.

· Desmond MorrisReflecting on his dual nature as a performer and academic in his memoir 'Animal Days'.

Morris's career was marked by a unique blend of scientific rigor and engaging popularization. His work at the London Zoo provided him with unparalleled insights into animal behavior, which he masterfully applied to understanding human actions. Beyond "The Naked Ape," he penned numerous other influential books, including "The Human Zoo" and "Man Watching," and hosted the popular television series "Zoo Time." His ability to dissect the complexities of human nature with a blend of wit and scientific observation made him a unique figure in both academia and public discourse.

From a South Korean perspective, Morris's work, particularly "The Naked Ape," offered a fascinating, albeit controversial, lens through which to view humanity. His assertion that humans are inherently sexual beings and that our actions are deeply rooted in evolutionary biology challenged conventional wisdom and sparked considerable discussion. His ability to translate complex scientific ideas into accessible prose ensured his ideas reached a broad audience, making him a significant figure in the popularization of science in Korea and beyond. His death is a loss to the world of science and a reminder of the enduring power of curiosity and bold inquiry.

Humans are the sexiest ape.

· Desmond MorrisA key thesis from his book 'The Naked Ape'.
About this summary

Originally published by Hankyoreh in Korean. Translated, summarized, and contextualized automatically by DistantNews, with a note on how the source frames the story. Not individually reviewed before publishing. How this works.

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