Ape Genius

Co-produced with the National Geographic Society, this upbeat, thought-provoking NOVA episode surveys the latest research in primate studies to explore the differences and similarities between human and ape intelligence. Since people and great apes (chimpanzees, bonobos, orangutans, and gorillas) are nearly identical genetically, scientists wonder why there's such a large gap between our intellectual capacities. Some answers are found at a site in Senegal, where researchers marvel at the discovery of chimps, previously thought to be afraid of water, swimming at a “pool party” and making spears to use as weapons for hunting food. Other studies with various apes in learning labs in Texas, Germany, and Japan, question why simians have never built upon the achievements of previous generations to create a more human-like culture of cooperation. As engaging experts describe their findings and discuss the factors that make apes and humans so intellectually similar (including the apes' capacity for learning language, simple math, puzzle-solving, etc.), we also gain a greater insight into communication techniques—such as the simple act of pointing—that are unique to humans. All of this is illustrated with an abundance of fascinating footage of apes demonstrating intellectual skills that are equal to—and even greater than—young human children. Which leads to yet another intriguing question: why didn't Earth literally become a “planet of the apes”? DVD extras include printable materials for educators. Highly recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (J. Shannon)