Many Minds cover image

Many Minds

The nature of nurture

Sep 5, 2024
In this engaging discussion, Dr. Sarah Blaffer Hrdy, a distinguished Professor Emerita of Anthropology, delves into the complexities of paternal care. She debunks the myth of 'maternal instinct' by exploring surprising instances of male caregiving in various species. The conversation touches on Darwin's observations of caretaking plasticity, the impact of intimate time on nurturing abilities, and the societal shifts reshaping fatherhood today. Hrdy also examines the cultural constructs of patriarchy and their implications for caregiving roles in humans.
01:16:48

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The podcast challenges the notion of maternal instinct as exclusive to women, revealing a more nuanced view of paternal care across species.
  • Dr. Blaffer-Hurdy illustrates how hormonal factors like prolactin and oxytocin in both genders drive nurturing behaviors, promoting cooperative care roles.

Deep dives

Challenging Maternal and Paternal Instincts

The podcast delves into the cultural perception of maternal instinct as a natural nurturing trait exclusive to women, contrasting it with the idea of paternal aloofness in men. Dr. Sarah Blaffer-Hurdy highlights how, biologically speaking, the situation is more complex, suggesting that males may have historically been the primary caregivers in some species. Evolutionary evidence demonstrates that certain fish and amphibians showcase paternal care, with males often taking on roles such as protecting eggs and providing food for their young. This challenges prevailing assumptions about gender-specific caregiving roles and indicates a shared biological foundation for nurturing that extends to both sexes.

Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts

Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
App store bannerPlay store banner