In 'Sex at Dawn', Christopher Ryan and Cacilda Jethá present a compelling argument that human beings evolved in egalitarian groups where food, child care, and sexual partners were shared. The authors use evidence from anthropology, archaeology, primatology, anatomy, and psychosexuality to debunk the standard narrative of human sexual evolution. They contend that before the advent of agriculture, human societies were characterized by sexual freedom and promiscuity, which strengthened social bonds and ensured the well-being of the group. The book challenges modern concepts of monogamy and sexual exclusivity, offering a fresh perspective on human sexuality and its implications for modern relationships.
In this book, Joseph Campbell explores his theory of the 'monomyth', a universal pattern found in the mythological narratives of various cultures. He details the stages of the 'hero's journey', which include departure from the ordinary world, initiation into a supernatural world, and return with a boon. Campbell draws on a wide range of mythological sources and integrates insights from psychology, particularly from Carl Jung and Sigmund Freud, to illustrate the common elements of heroic myths across different cultures.
Dr. John Sarno's "Mind Over Back Pain" explores the mind-body connection in chronic pain, particularly back pain. Sarno argues that many cases of chronic pain are caused by psychological factors, such as repressed emotions and stress, rather than physical damage. The book details Sarno's clinical experiences and research, presenting a compelling case for the role of the mind in pain perception. He emphasizes the importance of emotional healing and self-awareness in pain management. Sarno's work has been both praised and criticized, but it has significantly influenced the understanding of chronic pain and its treatment. The book encourages readers to take control of their pain by addressing underlying psychological issues.
Daniel Everett's "Don't Sleep, There Are Snakes" offers a captivating account of the author's experiences living among the Pirahã people of the Amazon. Everett, initially a missionary, details his linguistic research and cultural immersion, challenging conventional anthropological views. The book explores the Pirahã language's unique structure and the tribe's distinct worldview, emphasizing their emphasis on immediate experience and their lack of abstract thought. Everett's personal journey from missionary to cultural anthropologist is central to the narrative, highlighting the complexities of cross-cultural understanding. The book sparks debate about the universality of human cognition and the nature of language itself.
In 'Civilized to Death: The Price of Progress,' Christopher Ryan challenges the notion that civilization is inherently good. He argues that the advancements of modern society have introduced new and often more severe problems than those faced by prehistoric humans. Ryan questions whether the dangers of pre-civilized life, such as infant mortality and life-threatening injuries, were more murderous than modern scourges like car accidents, cancers, and cardiovascular diseases. He suggests that the shift from hunter-gatherer societies to agricultural and industrial societies has led to a decline in measures of health, longevity, security, and leisure. The book proposes that looking back to the ways of hunter-gatherer societies could provide insights into creating a more sustainable and fulfilling future[1][2][4].
This was originally episode 122, recorded in Portland, OR, in April, 2015. This conversation is about as uninhibited as they come. We bounce from shitting in Asia to how to compliment someone’s genitals to my experience giving a TED talk to eating disorders to group sex. Never a dull moment with Nikki. I’m so glad to see her getting the attention she deserves these days. Sometimes, the good guys win.
Intro music “Brightside of the Sun,” by Basin and Range. “Wicked Little Pill,” by Bird York. Outro: “Smoke Alarm,” by Carsie Blanton.
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Tangentially Speaking with Christopher Ryan 
