Biologically speaking, bonobos are the closest you can
get to being human without being human. Bonobos look
more like humans than other apes, and display many
behavioral similarities as well. Because we share so
many characteristics with these simian species, some
scientists contend that humans should be classified as
apes too.
In contrast to the competitive, male-dominated culture
of their close relative the chimpanzee, bonobo society
is peaceful, matriarchal and more egalitarian. Bonobos
live in large groups where harmonious coexistence is
the norm. While in many ways, males and females have
“separate but equal” roles, females
carry the highest rank, and the sons of ranking
females are the leaders among males. Females form
close bonds and alliances, which is another way they
maintain their power among males, who are larger and
stronger physically.
Like chimps, bonobo society is “male
philopatric,” meaning that the females migrate
to other groups when they reach puberty. This
eliminates the chance of incest and increases genetic
diversity
They make a lot of love, and do so in every
conceivable fashion. Beyond that, they are very loving
too, showing care and compassion for each other in
many ways. Sex in bonobo society transcends
reproduction, as it does in humans. It serves as a way
of bonding, exchanging energy and sharing pleasure.
Bonobos have been described as
“pansexual” by psychologist Frans de
Waal. Sex permeates the fabric of bonobo society,
weaving through all aspects of daily life. It serves
an important function in keeping the society together,
maintaining peaceful, cooperative relations. Besides
heterosexual contact, both male and female bonobos
engage in same-sex encounters, and even group sex
occurs. Female-female contact, or
“GG-rubbing,” is actually the most
common. Unlike other apes, bonobos frequently copulate
face-to-face, looking into each others eyes. When
bonobo groups meet in the forest, they greet each
other, bond sexually, and share food instead of
fighting. Likewise, almost any conflict between
bonobos is eased by sexual activity, grooming, or
sharing food.