Jesse is is a research psychologist and Director of the Centre for Science Communication at the University of Otago in Dunedin, New Zealand. He is the author of several books, all of which examine controversial & taboo topics. We talk about the nature of sexual perversion - what it means, how it's defined and why moralistic, socially constructed positions related to behavior of any kind can be extremely problematic. We dive into everything from pedophilia to incest to zoophilia and challenge the "nature" argument as it relates to the construction of sexual orientation. We also discuss how shame and punishment have played a role in human relationships throughout history, how theory of mind can feed into a belief in something greater than ourselves, suicide, narcissism, and how Trump embodies a perfect elixir of both cleverness and psychosis enabling him to capitalize on collective human psychology.

Find Jesse at jessebering.com

Jesse's Book Recommendation: The Stranger by Albert Camus

Songs featured: "Animal" by Jenny and Johnny and "If 6 Was 9" by Axiom Funk

How to support the show:

Rate, review and subscribe to the podcast on iTunes!

Support my work on Patreon and get access to perks like an exclusive WhatsApp group chat & book club just for patrons!

Visit my website - AnyaKaats.com & Find me on Instagram

Get full access to Dirt Road Dispatch at anyakaats.substack.com/subscribe