Aggression, Pandemics, and Historical Hygiene

This chapter explores the nature of aggression in animals alongside fictional portrayals in media, while examining the historical impact of pandemics, particularly on Native American populations. It draws a comparison between COVID-19 and historical outbreaks like the Black Plague, discussing societal reactions and scapegoating, especially towards Jewish communities due to misguided hygiene practices. Additionally, the conversation humorously reflects on the absurdity of medieval hygiene norms and how they shaped perceptions of health and disease throughout history.