Masao Kawai

was a Japanese primatologist, He continues the study of primatology, especially Japanese macaque, and wrote a dissertation titled "Experimental research to groups of Japanese macaque" (ニホンザルの群れ社会に関する実験的研究). He received Doctor of Science from Kyoto University in 1962.

He moved to Primate Research Institute, Kyoto University as an assistant professor in 1967, and was promoted professor in 1970. He continued work there and retired in 1987.

Kawai Masao, introduced the concept of kyokan. This was the theory that the only way to attain reliable scientific knowledge was to attain a mutual relation, personal attachment and shared life with animal subjects. Though Kawai is the only Japanese primatologist associated with the use of this term, the underlying principle is part of the foundation of Japanese primate research.

He died in his home at Tamba-Sasayama in 2021.

Academic contributions

Honnor Asahi Prize (1969) Seiji Noma's memorial Juvenile literature award (1976) NHK Culture Award (1990) Medals of Honor, Purple (1990) Sankei Children's Book Award (1992) Mainichi Publishing Culture Award (1992) Order of the Rising Sun, Third grade (1995) Duke of Edinburgh Prize, Japan Academy (2004)

Relatives First brother: Hitoshi Kawai was a surgeon. He studied at Niigata Medical Colledge, and took care Masao when Masao studied in Niigata. Fifth brother: Hayao Kawai was a Jungian psychologist. He served the chief of the Agency for Cultural Affairs (2002 - 2007).