Radiolab New Normal
5 snips
Dec 30, 2022 
Robert Sapolsky, a Stanford neuroscientist known for his groundbreaking research on stress and baboon behavior, discusses the nature of violence through the lens of baboons, revealing how their social dynamics challenge our views on aggression. Former mayor Stu Rasmussen shares his journey as the first openly transgender mayor in the U.S., reflecting on the complexities of identity and community acceptance in Silverton, Oregon. Together, they explore how change is the only constant in defining what 'normal' truly is.
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Persistence of Peaceful Behavior
- Sapolsky found the baboon troop's peaceful behavior persisted even with new males joining.
- Females played a key role by quickly integrating newcomers, disrupting the usual aggression cycle.
Culture vs. Genetics
- Sapolsky believes cultural change, not just genetics, influences behavior.
- Richard Wrangham argues that genetic change is necessary for true, lasting change.
Garbage Disrupts Baboon Culture
- The baboons' peaceful culture ultimately didn't last due to easy access to garbage.
- This disrupted their natural behaviors and led to fragmentation of the troop.