Over the years, world-renowned biologist Frans de Waal has studied the lives of chimpanzees and bonobo monkeys. During the research process, he identified clear rudiments of ethical behavior in the primate community. According to the author, morality is not a purely human property, and its origins should be sought in animals. Empathy and other manifestations of a kind of morality are inherent in monkeys, dogs, elephants, and even reptiles. In addition to a fascinating account of ethical behaviors in the primate world, the author raises profound philosophical questions related to science and religion. How and when did morality arise? What effect has religion had on the formation of ethics? What happens to society, where the role of religion is reduced, and is the hero of Dostoevsky Ivan Karamazov right, saying: "If there is no God, I have the right to rob my neighbor"?