Kyoto University Institute for the Future of Human Society Professor
I am studying the evolution of sociality and its related intelligence in humans and non-human animals, developing a two-by-two research paradigm: cognitive experiments and fieldwork with chimpanzees and bonobos. Recently I have been expanding this to some other animals such as dogs, cats, horses and elephants, both in captivity and in natural environments. My ultimate theme is to explore what humanity is. Where did it come from and how can it change in the future? I am especially interested in the evolution of social living characterized by empathy, cooperation, and culture. My previous work has revealed that chimpanzees help others upon request, but not proactively, even when they understand others' goals. This suggests that proactive helping is one of unique characteristics of humans. I welcome international students / postdocs / researchers who can collaborate in this interdisciplinary research area.