The Sacred Monkeys of Bali

by Bruce P. Wheatley

The Sacred Monkeys of Bali is a unique, well-researched book about the long-tailed macaques of Bali and how the Balinese integrate these sacred monkeys into their worldview. Unique because it is the first time a primatologist has incorporated the human element into research, this short volume clearly records precise analysis of long-tailed macaque behavior and then describes corresponding alterations in human behavior caused by the presence of the monkeys. This juxtaposition of human culture and monkey culture--of human primates and nonhuman primates--demonstrates that habitats where humans live together with monkeys actually may be more harmonious than they are disruptive. In brilliant chapters on the history and aesthetics of Bali, Wheatley shows how the island's art is part of its religious lore and practices. The chapter on the social behavior of the long-tailed macaques at the Monkey Forest at Padangtegal contains entirely new information on the species, including aspects of their dominance behavior, appeal-aggression, vocalizations, and intertroop behavior. In addition, the book extends beyond the field of anthropology to include such topics as conservation, ecology, and tourism. This is a profound, mature study of a land that is developing and a tradition of worship that struggles to adapt and stay strong. It is a wonderful illustration of how anthropologists can work together with local people for the welfare of all the local people, the animals, and the forest. Introduction 1. Bali, the Monkey King 2. Primate Commensalism 3. Social Behavior of Temple Monkeys at Padangtegal 4. The Sacred Monkey Forest at Padangtegal 5. Cultural Primatology The Vocal Repertoire of M. fascicularis at the Monkey Forest at Padangtegal

Genres: Science, Animals, Anthropology

189 pages, Paperback

First published April 5, 1999

Reviews

[Betsy McGee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well, I enjoyed this book, even tough a lot of my classmates didn't. And Dr. Wheatley is great, he tries really hard to be amusing and informative at the same time.

[Farrell Schambow · Rating 5 out of 5]

thankyou for the compliment... this is my Dad's book he wrote... he is an awesome person. Going to Bali was a wonderful educational experience for me and my whole family and i will never forget it. :)

[Evelyn · Rating 3 out of 5]

Although the studies in this book were undertaken in 1986, and 1991 and 1992, they still remain relevant for the lessons that can be drawn regarding the need for drawing upon the traditional knowledge and beliefs of indigenous peoples when studying animals in their native habitats, and developing and implementing plans to conserve those animals, their habitats and the environment.

Although parts of the book are technical in nature, and may be of little interest to anyone other than primatologists and students of primatology and anthropology, the chapters on cultural anthropology will be of interest to a more general audience who want to ensure that conservation projects are successful.

The book rates 3.5 stars.