Bonobos, our closest evolutionary relatives, have surprised the scientific community with an ability that was previously thought to be exclusive to humans: the ability to recognize ignorance in others and correct it through communication and strategic cooperation.

How was this ability discovered?

Researchers observed bonobo behavior in their natural environment and in controlled settings. They discovered that these primates can identify when a member of their group lacks information about a situation and use vocalizations or gestures to correct their mistake.

For example, if a bonobo sees another approaching a dangerous food source, such as a beehive, it can warn it with specific sounds to prevent it from making a mistake.

What does this mean for the evolution of intelligence?

This discovery suggests that the ability to correct ignorance in others is not unique to humans and may have evolved much earlier than previously thought. It also reinforces the idea that cooperation and communication are key to the survival of primates, including our own species.