What You Never Knew About Your Childhood & Go Inside the U.S. Capitol
Oct 17, 2024
auto_awesome
Breana Hassett, a biological anthropologist from University College London, discusses the fascinating evolutionary reasons for humanity's long childhood compared to other species. She explores the importance of prolonged learning and dependency. Meanwhile, Kate Andersen Brower, a CNN contributor and author, takes us on an intriguing tour of the U.S. Capitol, revealing hidden histories and unique facts about its workers and roles. Together, they weave a narrative about human development and the symbolic significance of one of America's most iconic buildings.
Long-term couples develop a unique emotional attunement that enables them to understand and respond to each other's needs without verbal communication.
Human childhood's prolonged duration compared to other species enhances social development and resource sharing, reflecting evolutionary advantages in complex societies.
Deep dives
The Intricacies of Long-Term Relationships
Long-term couples often have a heightened sensitivity to each other's needs and emotions, demonstrating an unspoken understanding that transcends verbal communication. Research reveals that spouses can actually hear one another even when they seem unengaged; they are able to recall details from their partner's conversations more accurately than those of strangers. This ability to perceive underlying tones and inflections allows them to interpret their partner's feelings effectively, often without the need for direct dialogue. Such findings highlight the profound connection formed over years together, making partners attuned to each other's emotions and thoughts.
The Unique Human Childhood
Human childhood is notably lengthy when compared to other species, which raises fascinating questions about its purpose and evolutionary significance. Unlike dogs, which are mature within months, humans take around 18 years to reach a similar stage of independence, reflecting a substantial investment in prolonged learning and social development. Biological anthropologist Brianna Hassett explains that this extended childhood allows for greater social cooperation and resource sharing, particularly as children rely on a broader familial network for support. Such an investment in childhood correlates with human complexity and social structures, differentiating us from many other species.
The Evolutionary Role of Grandmothers
The concept of grandmothers is quite rare among animal species, with most female animals reproducing and then passing away without an extended role in their offspring's lives. Humans, however, benefit from the presence of grandmothers who contribute significantly to the survival and success of their grandchildren. This additional support network allows for the sharing of knowledge and resources, which can enhance the survival rates of younger generations. While traditionally thought to be unique to humans, it has been observed that certain intelligent species, such as orcas, also exhibit similar familial hierarchies, indicating a potential evolutionary advantage in extended caregiving.
The Capitol's Historical Journey
The U.S. Capitol building is not only a symbol of American democracy but also a complex space filled with rich history and intricate details. Construction began in 1793, and since then, it has evolved to include various architectural and structural modifications reflecting its enduring significance. Notably, lesser-known facts about the Capitol include the presence of a subway service, a diverse workforce, and even stories of ghostly inhabitants. Events such as marriages occurring on the dome top exemplify the Capitol's unique cultural history, emphasizing its role as a living monument to the nation's past.
Something interesting seems to happen when couples are together for a long time. Without even trying, they are able to tune into their partner’s voice, thoughts and emotions in very interesting ways. This episode begins by explaining how well you can read your partner, even from across a crowded room. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/265415.php
Compared to most other species, humans have a very long childhood. A dog is an adult in a matter of months. We take 18 years and sometimes longer. Why are we so dependent on others for so long? Has it always been like this? What else is unique about your human childhood? It turns out, a lot! And here with some surprising answers is Breana Hassett. She is biological anthropologist and researcher at University College, London, as well as a Scientific Associate at the Natural History Museum in London. Breana is also author of the book, Growing Up Human: The Evolution of Childhood (https://amzn.to/4eIa9eZ).
Th U.S. Capitol building is an amazing place. Over 10,000 people work there. So much history has been made there, people have died there, been married there and there is even a subway in the basement. Listen as we go on a fascinating tour of the Capitol with your tour guide, Kate Andersen Brower. She is a CNN contributor and former staff member at CBS News. Kate is author of the book The Hill: Inside the Secret World of the U.S. Capitol (https://amzn.to/3NnNsR1)
INDEED: Get a $75 SPONSORED JOB CREDIT to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING Support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Indeed.com/SOMETHING. Terms and conditions apply.
SHOPIFY: Sign up for a $1 per-month trial period at https://Shopify.com/sysk . Go to SHOPIFY.com/sysk to grow your business – no matter what stage you’re in!
MINT MOBILE: Cut your wireless bill to $15 a month at https://MintMobile.com/something! $45 upfront payment required (equivalent to $15/mo.). New customers on first 3 month plan only. Additional taxes, fees, & restrictions apply.