Radiolab New Normal
5 snips
Dec 30, 2022 
Robert Sapolsky, a Stanford neuroscientist known for his groundbreaking research on stress and baboon behavior, discusses the nature of violence through the lens of baboons, revealing how their social dynamics challenge our views on aggression. Former mayor Stu Rasmussen shares his journey as the first openly transgender mayor in the U.S., reflecting on the complexities of identity and community acceptance in Silverton, Oregon. Together, they explore how change is the only constant in defining what 'normal' truly is.
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Shifting Optimism About Peace
- Human nature is often blamed for persistent war.
- John Horgan's surveys suggest a shift in optimism about peace over time.
Baboons' Behavioral Change
- Robert Sapolsky observed a baboon troop's transformation after a tuberculosis outbreak killed aggressive males.
- The troop became less aggressive and more social, with increased grooming.
Persistence of Peaceful Behavior
- Sapolsky found the baboon troop's peaceful behavior persisted even with new males joining.
- Females played a key role by quickly integrating newcomers, disrupting the usual aggression cycle.