Ideas Why we can’t live without the universal feeling of disgust
May 29, 2025
Join David Pizarro, a psychology professor at Cornell, along with Paul Rosin, the renowned 'godfather of disgust studies,' and Senthoran Raj, an Associate Professor of Human Rights Law. They delve into the complex emotion of disgust, tracing its evolutionary roots and its influence on culture, politics, and morality. The discussion reveals how disgust shapes our identities and societal norms, the irony of our dietary choices, and its darker use in dehumanization and law. Get ready for an intriguing exploration of why disgust is both essential and perilous!
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Insect Farm and Western Disgust
- Greg Wanger shows the insect farm producing black soldier fly protein used in pet food and fish feed.
- Despite the common Western disgust, insects are a staple food globally and offer sustainable nutrition.
Disgust as Evolutionary Protection
- Disgust acts as the first line of defense against parasites and disease transmission.
- It monitors cues like feces, sores, and bodily fluids to prevent infection.
Disgust's Magical Contagion
- Disgust can transfer to objects through contact, making previously appealing things repulsive.
- This "magical" contagion explains why touched food often becomes inedible despite sterilization.
