Almost Chimpanzee
Searching for What Makes Us Human, in Rainforests, Labs, Sanctuaries, and Zoos
Almost Chimpanzee: Searching for What Makes Us Human, in Rainforests, Labs, Sanctuaries, and Zoos. Times Bks: Holt. Sept. 2010. c.384p. illus. index. ISBN 9780805083071. $27.50. NAT HIST
COPY ISBN
Cohen (Coming to Term: Uncovering the Truth About Miscarriage), a well-known correspondent for Science magazine, has written a fascinating study of the differences that separate humans from chimpanzees (as opposed to other recent titles that address similarities) and current primatology research. He organizes his book into three main sections, "Blood," "Brains," and "Bodies," to provide a framework to set his discussions in motion. For example, in "Blood," there is a chapter on hybrid animals (e.g., ligers, the cross between tigers and lions), and Cohen explains the research theory that humans and chimpanzees came from a hybrid line that then separated into two distinct species.
VERDICT Although Cohen's book is technical at times, educated lay readers interested in primate studies will appreciate his attention to detail and his engaging prose.
Comment Policy:
Comment should not be empty !!!