Intelligence Squared Humans: A Monstrous History
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Feb 17, 2025 
In this engaging conversation, historian Surekha Davies dives into the intriguing concept of monstrosity and its ties to societal fears. She discusses how narratives about monsters reflect our values and history, exploring figures who embody ‘otherness’ and the implications for race and gender. The chat also touches on the potential of alien life and how our understanding of humanity shifts in light of AI advancements. With historical context, Davies highlights the dangers of discrimination and the need for advocacy against harmful narratives.
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What is a Monster?
- Monsters are not real things, but stories that reflect category-breaking.
- They emerge when something transcends established boundaries, like Frankenstein being both dead and alive.
Alternatives to Monstrifying
- Avoid "monstrifying" by seeing individuals on a continuum, not in fixed categories.
- Embrace diversity; if everyone is unique or "monstrous," no one is.
The COVID-19 Pandemic
- Surekha Davies questioned scientists about considering non-human life.
- They dismissed it, but COVID-19 proved her point about interconnectedness.