The Ape that Understood the Universe

'In The Ape that Understood the Universe, evolutionary psychologist Steve Stewart-Williams provides a masterful account of how the mind and culture evolve. Stewart-Williams is an exceptionally good writer, a witty and learned guide through challenging but exciting terrain that includes psychology, biology, anthropology, philosophy, and animal behavior. The Ape that Understood the Universe is a rare accomplishment: equal parts intellectual exhilaration and beautifully crafted narrative. Read this book for its literary grace, and learn along the way why you are an ape that can understand the universe.' Todd Shackelford, Oakland University, Michigan

'A great introduction to human nature - whether you're a member of our species or an alien scientist puzzled by this planet's dominant life-form. Stewart-Williams shows how genes and memes entwine to explain our deepest concerns and our highest aspirations. This fun, easy-going, science-savvy book will make you smarter about your emotions, your relationships, and your society.' Geoffrey Miller, author of The Mating Mind, Spent, and Mate

'This is a highly imaginative (and solidly informed) book about the nature of human nature - who we really are. Stewart-Williams has a firm grip on the latest data in evolutionary psychology and cultural evolution, all elegantly woven into a fine narrative packed with provocative (and astute) ideas. It's an insightful, accurate and refreshingly amusing read.' Helen Fisher, author of Anatomy of Love and Why Him? Why Her?

'In The Ape that Understood the Universe, Steve Stewart-Williams takes the reader from first principles to a deep understanding of the evolutionary and cultural underpinnings of human behavior. Not only has Stewart-Williams produced a work of deep understanding, he has also produced one which is a real page turner. A twenty-first century successor to The Selfish Gene.' Lance Workman, co-author of Evolutionary Psychology: An Introduction

'If you hate the idea of selfish genes, this book should change your mind. With vivid examples and fascinating evidence, Stewart-Williams provides a powerful challenge to the 'culture is all' lobby. The best update of the gene's-eye view I have seen for a long time. This book will turn your view of human nature inside out and upside down.' Susan Blackmore, author of The Meme Machine and Consciousness: An Introduction

'An eloquent and elegant exploration of human nature in the light of evolution, illuminating many modern social and political dilemmas.' Matt Ridley, author of The Red Queen and Nature via Nurture

'Although there are many books covering evolutionary approaches to the human mind and behavior, this is one of the best, in terms of its choice of topics, insightful coverage, knowledge of the subject-matter, and quality of writing. I enthusiastically recommend it both to those familiar with the area and to newcomers.' John Archer, University of Central Lancashire

'This...

Steve Stewart-Williams is an Associate Professor of Evolutionary Psychology at the University of Nottingham, Malaysia Campus. His research and writing revolve around the idea that theories from evolutionary biology can shed light on the human mind and behavior, focusing especially on sex differences and altruism. He also has a long-standing interest in the philosophical implications of evolutionary theory. His first book, Darwin, God and the Meaning of Life (Cambridge), was published in 2010.

1. The alien's challenge; 2. Darwin comes to mind; 3. The SeXX/XY animal; 4. The dating, mating, baby-making animal; 5. The altruistic animal; 6. The cultural animal; Appendix A: how to win an argument with a blank slater; Appendix B: how to win an argument with an anti-memeticist.