651 - Becoming Uncivilized (with Anya and Nadia)

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.

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].

Stephen Jay Gould's "The Spandrels of San Marco" is a seminal essay that challenges the adaptationist program in evolutionary biology. Gould and Lewontin argue against the tendency to explain every biological trait as an adaptation, highlighting the importance of historical contingency and constraints. They use the architectural spandrels of San Marco as a metaphor, showing how seemingly designed features can arise as byproducts of other structures. The essay emphasizes the need for a more nuanced understanding of evolutionary processes, considering factors beyond simple adaptation. It sparked significant debate and influenced the development of evolutionary developmental biology. The essay's impact extends beyond biology, influencing discussions in philosophy and other fields.