Episode 72: Christopher Ryan - The Hunter-Gatherer Within

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Christopher Ryan is a writer, a podcaster, and the author of the bestselling books "Sex at Dawn" and "Civilized to Death." During our conversation, Chris talks about his interest in human nature, Native American culture, humanity's origins as hunter-gatherers, and what we can learn from the environment and general culture that shaped our psychology. He also talks about the dawn of agriculture, and why that event - which occurred independently numerous times - is arguably humanity's biggest mistake.

If "know thyself" is the bedrock of wisdom, we must first understand who we are, where we come from, and how we evolved. Chris's perspective may allow us all to better understand and prioritize the important aspects of human life: how we work, how we love, and what's worth valuing - especially for those who are struggling and suffering in modern civilization. I love his irreverence, his intelligence, his independence of mind, and his unique lifestyle.

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(00:00) Intro

(01:44) Preferring life as a hunter-gatherer

(07:40) Chris's work tries to understand human nature

(14:38) Civilized to Death

(27:51) The mistake of the dawn of agriculture

(37:34) Lessons from Native Americans

(51:09) Chris forging his own path

(01:04:20) Monogamy and "Sex at Dawn"

(01:13:12) Suspicion of American ambition

(01:23:10) Joseph Campbell and humans returning home