Maryland Zoo in Baltimore - April 28, 2007

It's funny how, even as far removed from nature as humans are, we still get so much pleasure from being petted, scratched, and otherwise groomed in a manner similar to these chimps. With us, like them, that type of physical closeness is very relaxing and and can seriously aid in the creation and maintenance of social ties. I think the world would probably be a better, more peaceful place if social grooming like this was encouraged and practiced more.

Even better: we should look to the bonobos.