Reassuring touch kept the peace six million years before humans evolved – new research

Physical touch may be far older than humanity itself as a tool for managing social tension. The Conversation reports on research studying bonobos and chimpanzees at sanctuaries in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Zambia. Scientists found that when apes engaged in friendly contact before competing for food, they were significantly more likely to feed peacefully alongside one another afterward. The pattern was strongest in the more tolerant communities, suggesting this behavior dates back at least six million years. Humans show similar patterns—research finds handshakes before negotiations increase cooperation, and sports teams that touch more during games perform better together. Physical touch appears to be an ancient and effective way to signal trust and maintain peace.

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