Modern Wisdom #594 - Dr Richard Wrangham - The Incredible Evolution Of Human Violence
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Feb 25, 2023 Dr. Richard Wrangham, a Harvard anthropologist known for his research on human evolution and aggression, delves into the complexities of human violence. He discusses how our capacity for both kindness and ruthlessness evolved. Wrangham explores the duality of human nature, contrasting aggression with tolerance, and the evolutionary origins of morality. He highlights fascinating comparisons between human and primate behavior, particularly the role of female coalitions in bonobo society, and reflects on how societal structures shape male power dynamics and perceptions of aggression.
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Human Nature's Paradox
- Humans are paradoxically both incredibly aggressive and incredibly kind.
- Our capacity for both extremes is rooted in our biology, not solely societal influence.
Evolutionary History of Aggression
- Humans, like wolves and chimps, are effective hunters who can turn their skills inward.
- Coalitionary attacks, using numbers and surprise, have characterized human violence.
Self-Domestication through Language
- Language facilitated the execution of bullies within human groups.
- This led to self-domestication, selecting for less reactively aggressive individuals.
