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On Humans
48 | Is War Natural After All? ~ Luke Glowacki
Nov 2, 2024
Luke Glowacki, a Boston University anthropology professor specializing in the evolution of war, dives into the ancient origins of warfare. He challenges the belief that peace was the default state of early humans, discussing the roles of hunter-gatherers and archaeological evidence. The conversation touches on the absence of war in ancient cave art and comparisons between humans and primates like chimpanzees and bonobos. Glowacki emphasizes understanding conflict's evolutionary roots to foster cooperation and peace in contemporary society.
01:06:04
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Quick takeaways
- The podcast debates the origins of war, contrasting views on whether it is an ancient or recent development influenced by settled societies.
- Modern hunter-gatherer societies exhibit complex social dynamics, challenging the binary notion of them being entirely peaceful or aggressive.
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Origins of War Debate
The podcast delves into the ongoing debate about the origins of war, highlighting two contrasting perspectives. Some scholars argue that warfare has historical roots dating back to early human societies, including hunter-gatherers, while others, such as Douglas Fry and Brian Ferguson, contend that war is a relatively recent development tied to the complexities of settled societies. The discussion includes the importance of understanding both the biological and cultural factors that contribute to warfare, stressing the need for honest reflection on its roots. By hosting anthropologist Luke Glowacki, the conversation aims to explore varied viewpoints and enrich the understanding of war’s origins.
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Discover
highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode