Passing of Professor Frans de Waal

Photo credit: The Economist

Frans de Waal (1948-2024): Visionary primatologist, influential author, and beloved mentor

Frans de Waal revolutionized our understanding of primate society by illuminating the complex social structures and emotional lives of our closest living relatives. Through both clever empirical studies and keen theoretical insights, his work was pivotal in elucidating the nature and cognitive foundations of peacemaking, justice, and morality. His research challenged prevailing notions of human uniqueness, demonstrating striking similarities between humans and our primate cousins in terms of empathy, cooperation, and social intelligence. Sadly, Frans passed away on March 14, 2024, leaving behind a profound legacy that continues to shape our understanding of our place in the animal kingdom.

Born in the Netherlands in 1948, Frans developed a lifelong passion for the natural world from a young age. He obtained his Ph.D. in biology from Utrecht University in 1977, where he began his groundbreaking research on the behavior and social dynamics of primates. Frans’s pioneering studies on chimpanzees at Arnhem Zoo in the Netherlands (and later, Emory University’s Yerkes National Primate Research Center in Atlanta, Georgia), revealed the vital role of cooperative and peaceful behavior in primate social relationships. His discovery of behaviors like reconciliation (friendly reunions between former opponents shortly after conflicts) and consolation (post-conflict affiliation involving a third party) demonstrated how group members manage and mitigate the negative effects of aggression. His focus soon broadened from aggression and post-conflict behavior in apes and monkeys to consider various aspects of prosocial behavior (e.g., cooperation, altruism, fairness), social emotions, and cultural learning—topics he’d further explore with students and collaborators in other taxa

including elephants and rodents. His research approach was characterized by a deep respect for individual animals and patient observation, allowing him to discern nuances in their behavior that eluded others. His creative studies addressed bold questions that took animals’ subjective perspectives and experiences seriously, enriching our understanding of their social, cognitive, and emotional worlds.

Alongside an impressive body of empirical work were his major theoretical contributions. Frans influenced not just natural and social scientists but also scholars in the humanities, particularly philosophers. His pioneering efforts in challenging anthropocentrism and championing cognitive continuity between humans and other animals have been instrumental in shaping our understanding of animal minds and their implications for ethics and policy. Moreover, his engaging and prolific writing and public lectures brought these profound insights to wider audiences, igniting a sense of wonder and awe for the natural world that drew Frans, and so many of us, to science. His best-selling books, including ''Chimpanzee Politics''; ''Our Inner Ape''; and ''The Bonobo and the Atheist''; not only captivated readers with vivid descriptions of primate life but also provoked deep reflections on human nature and morality. Most recently, he boldly took on timely topics like sex differences (“Different”) and animal emotions (“Mama’s Last Hug”). Most of his books bore a dedication to his wife (and literary consult and critic), Catherine Marin, whom he affectionately referred to as his favorite primate.

Frans de Waal will be remembered not only for his groundbreaking scholarship but also for his warmth, optimism, humor, and dedication as a mentor. Many of de Waal’s students speak of their deep gratitude for the profound impact he has had on their careers and lives. He went out of his way to support junior scholars and provide them with the tools to thrive. More than just a scientific mentor, de Waal served as a role model, valuing collaboration and showing respect even to those with differing viewpoints. Despite his fame and achievements, he remained remarkably grounded and unpretentious, free from the trappings of stress or self-importance. His light-hearted demeanor fostered a convivial and collaborative atmosphere in his lab and other scientific circles.

Frans de Waal’s visionary work will continue to shape scholarship for years to come; the full extent of its impact and implications is likely yet to be fully realized—it is where our field is headed. Likewise, the reach on his influence—not just for students and collaborators but also the wider public—is expansive and endless. His memorial website, https://www.fransdewaalmemorial.com, offers a glimpse into the countless individuals whose lives he has touched with his work.

He will be missed dearly.

Written by Dr Christine Webb from Harvard University