Why are gorillas more peaceful than the rest of the big apes?

Of these 7 recent species most behave friendly towards respectful humans as most humans behave respectful to them. However, individuals of each species can get intimidated or ferocious if irritated by another species' member, getting the impression to be threatened, even by misinterpretation or lousy mood. read more

The answer is the same for both: intelligence. The more a species is intelligent, the more is capable for both good and evil actions because they have a concept of what they do. read more

Although gorillas are far more powerful, I’d be much more cautious around a random chimpanzee. Chimps are enough stronger than we are (roughly five times as strong, pound per pound) that we have no chance against them. read more

The conventional view is that gorillas, like bonobos, rarely turn violent. A male gorilla will commit the occasional act of infanticide, especially if he is overthrowing another male. But these rare attacks aside, gorillas are thought to be peaceable. read more