This chapter explores the co-evolution of language and human biology, emphasizing the symbiotic relationship between humans and symbolic communication. It discusses the impact of symbolic communication on human cognition, development, and well-being, as well as how language has fundamentally shaped the human nervous system over millions of years. The conversation also delves into the simplification of symbols, the reliance on external technology, and the addictive nature of ideologies in society.
We belong to our symbols as much as they belong to us. Like the planetary environment, our relationship with language and symbols has impacted our culture, even our biology, argues Professor of Anthropology, Terrence Deacon. Our capacity for interpretation allows us to understand one another and work as a collective mind, explaining the incredible leaps our species has made—and also the trouble we’re in.
Terrence joins me to explain our relationship to symbols and how they evolve with the world. We then discuss what happens when our symbols get stuck, or disconnected, simplifying into ideological constructs which fix our identities.
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