We tend to see everything as examples of human choices. But what if the so awe does not choose? What if blind evolutionary mechanisms are largely responsible for human civilization and its consequences? I don't think cultures choosead i hade in there there examples of cultures that change. There's another good book, a short history of progress. Ronald wright writes about cortez landing in mexico.
On this episode, we meet with Ecological Economist, John Gowdy.
Gowdy explores the revolution in biology and its significance in society. How do different cultures manifest human nature? What role has agriculture, and specific crops, played in how societies developed?
Further, Gowdy discusses the relationship between capitalism, surplus, and The Superorganism. Does human agency matter to the Superorganism? What role do blind evolutionary mechanisms play in the development of our society?
About John Gowdy:
John M. Gowdy is Professor of Economics and Professor of Science and Technology Studies at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, New York. He is the recipient of the Herman Daly Award for contributions to ecological economics.
For Show Notes and Transcript visit: https://www.thegreatsimplification.com/episode/14-john-gowdy