The Lawrence Jacobsen Library
DVD 0063 2008 Ape genius: what separates apes from humans

DVD 0063 2008 Ape genius: what separates apes from humans
NOVA/National Geographic [DVD; sd., col.; 53 min.: 2008 + Teaching materials in PDF format]

Discusses what is known about the intelligence of our nearest relatives, the great apes, including chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes), bonobos (Pan paniscus), orangutans (Pongo), and gorillas (Gorilla gorilla). Looks at historical research that shows they can use simple tools and even be trained to communicate in sign language. Also investigates newer research that looks at planned manufacture and use of weapons, math ability, creative problem solving, reasoning, cooperation, imitation, social emotions, and other aspects of intelligence. Asks what forms the crucial differences in intellect between apes and humans. Includes research of Jill Pruetz, Andrew Whiten, Josep Call, Rebecca Saxe, Victoria Horner, Brian Hare, Michael Tomasello, Tetsuro Matsuzawa, Sally Boysen, Antoine Spiteri, Sue Savage-Rumbaugh and Jane Goodall.