Episode #62: Is Our Modern Civilization Helping or Hindering Flourishing? Insights and Answers with Dr. Christopher Ryan

Dr. Christopher Ryan is a thought-provoking author, researcher, and host of the podcast Tangentially Speaking. He gained international recognition with his New York Times bestseller Sex at Dawn (co-authored with Cacilda Jethá), which reexamines human sexuality through the lens of anthropology and evolutionary biology, challenging conventional views on monogamy and societal norms. His latest book, Civilized to Death, critiques modern society, arguing that progress has often detracted from our well-being. 

Chris’s work has been translated into over twenty languages, and appeared on Netflix, HBO, MSNBC, Fox News, CNN, NPR, The New York Times, The Times of London, The Washington Post, Time, Newsweek, National Geographic, and The Atlantic. Chris has been a featured speaker at TED, SXSW.

With a Ph.D. in psychology, Chris combines his expertise with wide-ranging experiences from his global travels, where he has lived among diverse cultures and explored alternative lifestyles. Chris’s work explores human nature, questioning the narrative of civilization as inherently beneficial, invites readers to rethink how we live and relate to one another, engaging audiences with a critical yet hopeful perspective on human potential and flourishing.

His work bridges the gap between academic theory and practical wisdom, engaging audiences with a critical yet hopeful perspective on human potential and flourishing.

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• Podcast: Tangentially Speaking
• Books: Sex at Dawn: How We Mate, Why We Stray, and What It Means for Modern Relationships (2010, co-authored with Cacilda Jethá); Civilized to Death: The Price of Progress (2019)
• Civilized to Death Cocktail Party Cheat Sheet (common objections to arguments and Chris’ replies) 

Timestamps:

[00:02:53] Detrimental effects of modern progress.

[00:06:29] Social isolation and community decline.

[00:17:21] Cultural differences in lifestyles.

[00:20:56] Hunter-gatherer societal values.

[00:24:42] Interdependence and community importance.

[00:39:47] The importance of "enough."

[00:41:47] Wealth and happiness paradox.

[00:46:07] Disaster sociology and human resilience.

[00:49:10] Pursuing true personal values.