Context with Brad Harris Evolution's Other Narrative
Sep 17, 2018
Challenging traditional evolution views, the podcast explores symbiosis and cooperation in human-microorganism co-evolution. It delves into the cultural and philosophical influences on evolutionary theory, highlighting symbiotic interpretations and the Russian perspective on evolution. The discussion includes redefining evolution through symbiotic interpretations, the significance of symbiogenesis in evolution and human health, and obstacles in science communication.
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Debate on Intelligent Design
- Brad Harris recalls debating a friend who supports intelligent design in schools.
- The friend misunderstood evolution as only "survival of the fittest" and was unaware of symbiosis-based evolutionary research.
Individualism Shapes Evolution View
- Adam Smith's individualist philosophy influenced the dominant interpretation of evolution as competition.
- Darwin's theory was framed with this individualistic viewpoint, limiting appreciation of cooperative evolution.
Early Recognition of Symbiosis
- Early naturalists began recognizing cooperation, not just competition, in evolution.
- Patrick Geddes highlighted symbiosis as a driver of evolution beyond Darwinism's scope.