Final answer:
In enforced proximity, captive primates may exhibit aggression through displays rather than physical attacks, rely on social touch and grooming for communication, and use visual cues like facial expressions to convey emotions. The lack of social interaction can lead to significant problems as noted in Harlow's monkey experiments. Primates also display behaviors that reflect the beginnings of human moral systems.
Step-by-step explanation:
In captive primates experiencing enforced proximity, a variety of behavior can be observed. For instance, male gorillas may display aggression through behavioral displays such as chest beating, dashing back and forth, and pounding the ground instead of engaging in physical attacks. These displays are prevalent among primates as a way to assert dominance and defend territory without resorting to violence, which could lead to injury or death.
Primates also heavily rely on social communication through touch and grooming, which are critical for maintaining social bonds within a group. Activities like embracing, grooming, and various ceremonial greetings are important behaviors seen in species such as the Indian langur and are common across many primate species, aiding in group cohesion.
The consequences of lacking social interaction can be profound, as seen in the famous Harlow's monkey experiments, where isolation led to significant social and developmental issues. In terms of visual communication, primates use certain postures and facial expressions to convey messages such as fear or the need to maintain distance, a behavior that can also be observed in captive settings.
Finally, the study of primatologist Frans de Waal suggests that primates display the roots of human morality through social behaviors, indicating a complex emotional and ethical life that is observed in their daily interactions.