Big Picture Science The Wrong Stuff
Feb 5, 2024
In this episode, archeologist Chip Colwell explores the evolutionary history of material accumulation and the shift from self-sufficiency to excessive consumption. Topics covered include the cognitive leap of tool use, assigning meaning to objects, early self-expression through carved zigzag marks, objects as symbols of identity, and the evolution of stuff accumulation from nomadic to settled lifestyles.
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
Introduction
00:00 • 2min
The Evolution of Material Accumulation
02:07 • 5min
The Cognitive Leap of Tool Use
06:44 • 14min
The Second Leap: Assigning Meaning to Things
20:27 • 6min
The Mystery of Carved Zigzag Marks: Exploring Early Self-Expression
26:10 • 6min
Objects as Symbols of Identity and the Cultural Tradition of Giving
32:29 • 3min
The Evolution of Stuff Accumulation
35:08 • 25min