Daniel and Kelly’s Extraordinary Universe Cannibalism (featuring Volker Rudolf)
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Nov 21, 2024 Dr. Volker Rudolf, a full professor at Rice University specializing in ecology and evolutionary biology, joins the conversation about the fascinating yet taboo subject of cannibalism. He reveals surprising instances of cannibalism in animals, including juvenile smallmouth bass and even parental consumption of their young. The discussion spans cultural perceptions, ethical dilemmas, and the evolutionary significance of these behaviors. Listeners will be amused and intrigued as ancient practices collide with modern dietary choices, alongside reflections on various historical contexts.
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Unexpected Cannibalism
- Kelly Wienersmith observed cannibalism in her lab.
- Smallmouth bass ate each other, surprising her due to their similar size and her naiveté about cannibalism's prevalence.
Speciesism and Diet
- Daniel and Kelly discuss the ethics of eating animals, considering intelligence and speciesism.
- Daniel accepts his speciesism, willing to eat intelligent pigs but not humans, while Kelly grapples with inconsistency.
Arby's Breaks Vegetarianism
- Kelly Wienersmith shares her evolving vegetarianism, initially making exceptions for humanely raised animals.
- An Arby's craving broke her streak, highlighting the emotional, non-rational nature of dietary choices.