The Jordan Harbinger Show 875: Jonathan Kennedy | How Pathogens Have Shaped Our World
Aug 8, 2023
Jonathan Kennedy, author of "Pathogenesis: A History of the World in Eight Plagues," delves into how pathogens have intricately molded humanity. He reveals that bacteria far outnumber humans and even contribute to our DNA. Kennedy discusses the role of gut microbiota in our moods and behavior and highlights how Neanderthal interactions have fortified our immunity. The transition to agriculture, he notes, sparked progress while unleashing lethal pandemics. Explore the profound legacies of diseases from the past and their enduring implications for our society.
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Microbial Impact
- Microbes and pathogens significantly impact our world, more than we realize.
- Their total mass outweighs humans by a thousandfold, and viruses, laid end-to-end, stretch for 100 million light-years.
Retroviral Influence
- Eight percent of human DNA originates from retroviruses.
- These infections have given us essential functions like memory formation and live birth.
Gut-Brain Connection
- Gut bacteria produce neurotransmitters that can influence our mood and behavior.
- This suggests a co-evolution where bacteria benefit from our social interactions.
