When Things Fall Apart (Throwback)

45 snips

Sep 19, 2024

Guest

Rebecca Solnit

Guest

Rutger Bregman

Rutger Bregman, a Dutch historian and author, and Rebecca Solnit, a keen observer of social and political issues, engage in a thought-provoking conversation. They challenge the belief that civilization merely masks our brutal instincts, exploring the concept of veneer theory. The discussion delves into historical perspectives on human nature, emergency responses during crises like Hurricane Katrina, and the importance of hope and optimism in fostering resilience. Ultimately, they argue for a nuanced view of humanity's capacity for compassion amid chaos.

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INSIGHT

Human Nature as a Self-Fulfilling Prophecy

Human nature views become self-fulfilling prophecies: assuming selfishness breeds selfishness.
Conversely, assuming decency can foster a different society, says Rutger Bregman.

INSIGHT

Veneer Theory Explained

Veneer theory posits civilization as a thin layer masking our true, selfish nature.
Crises supposedly shatter this veneer, revealing our inherent barbarity.

ANECDOTE

Federalist Papers and Human Nature

The Federalist Papers argued for a strong government, citing humanity's inherent selfishness.
The Founding Fathers designed the Constitution with this pessimistic view in mind.

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LEVIATHAN

Thomas Hobbes

Published in 1651, 'Leviathan' by Thomas Hobbes is a comprehensive treatise on political philosophy. The book is divided into four main parts: 'Of Man,' 'Of Commonwealth,' 'Of a Christian Commonwealth,' and 'Of the Kingdom of Darkness.' Hobbes argues that the natural state of humans is one of conflict and anarchy, and that the best way to achieve peace and security is through the establishment of a commonwealth governed by an absolute sovereign. This sovereign, which Hobbes terms the 'Leviathan,' has supreme authority over all aspects of governance, including law, religion, and public offices. Hobbes' work is a foundational text in social contract theory and continues to influence political thought to this day.

Humankind

A Hopeful History

Rutger Bregman

Humankind: A Hopeful History challenges the idea that humans are inherently selfish by presenting evidence of our altruistic behavior throughout history. The book takes a multi-disciplinary approach, drawing from history, economics, psychology, biology, anthropology, and archaeology to argue that humans are more peaceful and friendly than commonly believed. Bregman sides with Jean-Jacques Rousseau's view of human nature in the state of nature debate, opposing Thomas Hobbes' more pessimistic outlook. He also discusses the concept of 'domestication syndrome' and how humans may have self-domesticated, leading to a more cooperative and empathetic species.

A paradise built in hell

the extraordinary communities and strange joys that arise in disasters

Emily Beresford

Rebecca Solnit

David Muñoz Mateos

In 'A Paradise Built in Hell', Rebecca Solnit examines how people respond to disasters and crises, often forming strong, resilient communities. The book delves into the human capacity for cooperation, altruism, and mutual aid during times of catastrophe, challenging the common narrative that disasters bring out the worst in people. Solnit draws on historical examples such as the 1906 San Francisco earthquake, the 1985 Mexico City earthquake, and Hurricane Katrina to illustrate these phenomena.

Dear Dad

Alison Morgan

No information available.