Next of Kin
By Roger Fouts with Stephen Tukel Mills

Loulis

The book "Next of Kin" tells the story of Roger and his wife, Deborah's accomplishments with Washoe and her chimpanzee family over the past three decades, and their work on behalf of chimpanzees the world over.

This remarkable book tells the dramatic story of Roger Fouts's odyssey from novice researcher to celebrity scientist to impassioned crusader for the rights of animals. At the heart of the story is Fouts's magical thirty-year friendship with Washoe.

Living and conversing with Washoe and her family has given Roger Fouts a profound appreciation of how much we share with our closest biological relatives, and what they can teach us about ourselves. It has also made him -- at significant risk to his own career -- an outspoken opponent of biomedical experimentation on chimpanzees.

"Washoe has taught me that we are both a part of the natural world we share with all our fellow animals. She has taught me that personhood is something we share, and that personhood goes beyond species classifications. She has taught me that human arrogance is very lethal to our fellow beings on this planet, especially when it is combined with human ignorance. She has taught me that the most profound scientific discoveries are often based on the most humble approach. She has taught me that compassion is one of our dearest traits, and that we should value it above all others, including intelligence. She helped me to realize that if we humans do not embrace and respect our fellow species on this planet, then we stand a good chance of destroying the whole thing."

Order "Next of Kin" from the CHCI Gift Shop.