Getting dirty with Chris Ryan

19 snips

Oct 19, 2016

Dr. Chris Ryan, PhD, a provocative author known for his exploration of human behavior, shares his insights on civilization's future and the messy aspects of life. He and the host delve into unconventional health practices, including the surprising effects of gut bacteria on cravings and behavior. They discuss the complexities of human identity through the lens of 'The Human Swarm,' challenging modern society's approach to nature and community. The conversation takes humorous turns, examining the quirks of politics and technology, ultimately questioning the very essence of what it means to be human.

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ANECDOTE

Chris Ryan's Wim Hof Experience

Chris Ryan recounts his recent experiences with Wim Hof, including ice baths and sauna sessions.
They met in Holland and later spent several days together in the Pyrenees.

INSIGHT

C-Sections and Immune Systems

C-sections reduce newborns' immune system development, as they miss the mother's bacterial colonies.
Medical professionals now rub vaginal secretions on C-section babies to improve immunity.

ANECDOTE

Shit in Your Hand Exercise

At Esalen, Chris Ryan encouraged his workshop students to shit in their hands to challenge their notions of cleanliness.
He questioned why something inside the body becomes repulsive once outside.

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Civilized to Death

The Price of Progress

Christopher Ryan

In 'Civilized to Death: The Price of Progress,' Christopher Ryan challenges the notion that civilization is inherently good. He argues that the advancements of modern society have introduced new and often more severe problems than those faced by prehistoric humans. Ryan questions whether the dangers of pre-civilized life, such as infant mortality and life-threatening injuries, were more murderous than modern scourges like car accidents, cancers, and cardiovascular diseases. He suggests that the shift from hunter-gatherer societies to agricultural and industrial societies has led to a decline in measures of health, longevity, security, and leisure. The book proposes that looking back to the ways of hunter-gatherer societies could provide insights into creating a more sustainable and fulfilling future[1][2][4].

A paradise built in hell

the extraordinary communities and strange joys that arise in disasters

Emily Beresford

Rebecca Solnit

David Muñoz Mateos

In 'A Paradise Built in Hell', Rebecca Solnit examines how people respond to disasters and crises, often forming strong, resilient communities. The book delves into the human capacity for cooperation, altruism, and mutual aid during times of catastrophe, challenging the common narrative that disasters bring out the worst in people. Solnit draws on historical examples such as the 1906 San Francisco earthquake, the 1985 Mexico City earthquake, and Hurricane Katrina to illustrate these phenomena.

Sex at Dawn

The Prehistoric Origins of Modern Sexuality

Christopher Ryan

Cacilda Jethá

In 'Sex at Dawn', Christopher Ryan and Cacilda Jethá present a compelling argument that human beings evolved in egalitarian groups where food, child care, and sexual partners were shared. The authors use evidence from anthropology, archaeology, primatology, anatomy, and psychosexuality to debunk the standard narrative of human sexual evolution. They contend that before the advent of agriculture, human societies were characterized by sexual freedom and promiscuity, which strengthened social bonds and ensured the well-being of the group. The book challenges modern concepts of monogamy and sexual exclusivity, offering a fresh perspective on human sexuality and its implications for modern relationships.