Freakonomics Radio What Do Medieval Nuns and Bo Jackson Have in Common? (Update)
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Jun 25, 2025 
E.O. Wilson, a renowned biologist and author, discusses the concept of spite through intriguing historical anecdotes. He explores the harrowing tale of Saint Ebba, who mutilated herself to protect her honor, reflecting on humanity's dark motivations. The conversation delves into the dual life of sports legend Bo Jackson and a professional athlete's puzzling choice between a minor league deal and a lucrative NFL contract. Additionally, Wilson reveals the complexities of self-destructive spite in both humans and animals, challenging perceptions of altruism and aggression.
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Medieval Nuns' Extreme Self-Mutilation
- Medieval nuns like Saint Ebba cut off their noses and lips to preserve chastity and avoid rape by attackers.
- Their self-mutilation repelled invaders but led to martyrdom and painful deaths.
Spite Defined by Economics
- Spite involves harming oneself at cost to hurt another without benefiting others.
- Economic studies show about 10% of people engage in spiteful costly behaviors.
Bo Jackson's Spiteful Decision
- Bo Jackson was declared ineligible for college baseball under questionable circumstances involving Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
- He spitefully rejected a $7.66 million NFL offer to play baseball instead.
