Monkey Business - Robin Dunbar, Dave Gorman and Jo Setchell

Summary

In this episode of The Infinite Monkey Cage, the hosts explore the fascinating and often complex romantic and social lives of monkeys. Joining the discussion are evolutionary psychologist Robin Dunbar and anthropologist Jo Setchell, who provide expert insights into the behavior of primates and what these patterns reveal about human nature. The conversation covers the vast diversity of primate relationships, ranging from brief encounters to long-term monogamous bonds, such as those observed in Titi monkeys. The guests discuss the evolutionary drivers behind these social structures, emphasizing how food availability and environmental factors dictate group dynamics. A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to Dunbar’s famous research on social networks and brain size, commonly known as Dunbar’s Number. The experts explain how managing social relationships is cognitively expensive, necessitating the development of complex social intelligence and mentalizing skills. Throughout the show, the hosts and guests humorously challenge the limits of anthropomorphism, debating whether primate behaviors can truly be equated to human concepts like love, jealousy, or even fashion. Ultimately, the discussion highlights the intricate parallels between human and primate social evolution, shedding light on the Machiavellian and collaborative strategies required to navigate life in a group.

Updated Jun 30, 2026