Female, Sex, and Bonobo

By Xah Lee. Date:

Bonobo, quote:

The bonobo, previously called the pygmy chimpanzee and less often, the dwarf or gracile chimpanzee,…

The bonobo is popularly known for its high levels of sexual behavior. Sex functions in conflict appeasement, affection, social status, excitement, and stress reduction. It occurs in virtually all partner combinations and in a variety of positions. This is a factor in the lower levels of aggression seen in the bonobo when compared to the common chimpanzee and other apes. Bonobos are perceived to be matriarchal; females tend to collectively dominate males by forming alliances and use sexuality to control males. A male's rank in the social hierarchy is often determined by his mother's rank.

Vanessa Woods with bonobo 2006
Primatologist Vanessa Woods with a Bonobo.
Primate Expert Vanessa Woods: Bonobo Handshake [Bonobo Handshake: A Memoir of Love and Adventure in the Congo By Vanessa Woods. At Buy at amazon ]

See also: Demonic Males: Apes and the Origins of Human Violence.