In Quest of the Sacred Baboon: A Scientist's Journey

This is popular science writing at its best. Hans Kummer summarizes a lifetime's work with one of the most fascinating primate species there is. He is an eloquent writer and a superb scientist who really knows his subject. I assign this book to my primatology classes because he explains difficult concepts well and because he clearly outlines his thought processes as his research program unfolded in a way that helps students learn how to think scientifically. Hans Kummer is one of very few scientists who has used experimental approaches to analyze social dynamics in the field, and his experiments are eye-openers. His accounts of life in the field nicely supplement his detailed accounts of the animals' lives. Anyone interested in the nuts and bolts of social relationships will love this book. It is a must read for all primatologists, but it should be of interest to anyone who is interested in social relationships or the evolution of social behavior. The writing is definitely engaging enough to hold the attention of non-professionals.