We think there’s a TON you don’t know about alcohol, and this episode will change that.  

Today we are joined by author and Distinguished University Scholar and Professor of Philosophy at the University of British Columbia, Dr. Edward Slingerland. Dr. Slingerland discusses the adaptive function of intoxicants, particularly alcohol, in human society. He explains that humans are a unique species, heavily dependent on technology and tools, and that our hyper-social nature and cooperation with strangers contribute to our attraction to intoxicants. 

While alcohol can, in moderation, offer some psychological advantages, the availability of highly potent distilled alcohol and the shift from communal to private consumption have increased the risks associated with alcohol.  In this conversation, Dr. Edward Slingerland discusses the modern invention of access and its contribution to alcohol abuse. He explains how alcohol has emerged independently in different cultures and why it is considered the king of intoxicants. Dr. Slingerland also shares insights on assessing the role of alcohol in one's life and the potential costs and benefits associated with its consumption. He concludes by discussing his upcoming projects and books, including a defense of intelligent hedonism.

TAKEAWAYS

- Humans are a unique species, heavily dependent on technology and tools.

- Alcohol enhances creativity by reducing inhibitions and boosting mental flexibility.

- Alcohol facilitates bonding and cooperation by reducing self-monitoring and increasing feelings of well-being.

- The availability of highly potent distilled alcohol and the shift from communal to private consumption have increased the risks associated with alcohol.

CHAPTERS

04:29 - Humans as a Unique Species

07:19 - Why Do We Like Intoxicants?

08:23 - The Adaptive Function of Intoxicants

10:23 - The Role of Alcohol in Civilization

21:45 - Alcohol's Role in Bonding and Cooperation

26:04 - Personal Experiences with Alcohol

30:05 - The Dangers of Distilled Alcohol

35:11 - The Modern Invention of Access and Alcohol Abuse

40:31 - The Emergence of Alcohol in Different Cultures

43:06 - Alcohol as the King of Intoxicants

49:21 - Assessing the Role of Alcohol in One's Life

50:29 - The Role of Moderate Drinking in Society

58:13 - Assessing the Costs and Benefits of Alcohol

01:02:06 - Upcoming Projects and Books

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