Scientists gave one monkey a grape and its neighbour a cucumber, and the short-changed capuchin threw the cucumber back in an early study of animal responses to unfairness
A 2003 study showed capuchin monkeys reacted negatively to unequal rewards. Monkeys refused cucumber slices when a neighbor received grapes for the same task. This behaviour indicated inequity aversion, a dislike of receiving less. Researchers suggested this trait may have evolved alongside cooperation. The study offers insight into the evolution of human fairness and cooperation.
A 2003 study showed capuchin monkeys reacted negatively to unequal rewards. Monkeys refused cucumber slices when a neighbor received grapes for the same task. This behaviour indicated inequity aversion, a dislike of receiving less. Researchers suggested this trait may have evolved alongside cooperation. The study offers insight into the evolution of human fairness and cooperation.
