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In Our Nature
Absolutely everything is interconnected in astonishing dynamic ways that we are only beginning to understand, including our mental and planetary wellbeing.
The In Our Nature explores these connections, along with the unseen but profoundly influential currents, systems, cycles, patterns, stories, and constructs that shape both our inner lives and the world around us.
Why are we the way we are? Why are we treating the world and each other in the ways we do? Why do we feel so rubbish? Is this in our nature? What's going on?
Join me, Siobhán Friel, your host and fellow wanderer, as we curiously fondle the places where environmental, societal, historical, ecological and mythological contexts meet and mingle.
The In Our Nature pod wants to shed light on the hidden connections and deeper patterns that are shaping this extraordinary time we are in, helping us see more clearly as we make our way forth. Come and join me.
In Our Nature
This Myth About Human Nature Is Making Us Feel Anxious & Worthless (Oh, And Completely Wrecking Our Planet)
Today we are poking at the slimy, damaging myth of Homo Economicus—the cold, self-interested, rational creature that modern economics says we all are.
This story has shaped our minds, relationships, structures, behaviours and planets (well, at least one so far: Earth, the best one) and has led to utter catastrophe, inside and out.
If:
- you’re tired of being told that selfishness is ’just human nature’ and
- you suspect it’s not your fault that you feel anxious, worthless, sh*tty and tired, and
- (crucially) you enjoy your podcast episodes with a faint backdrop of Aotearoa/ New Zealand bird song
….then this episode is for you.
🦜🦅🐦⬛🐦
Join me to explore:
- Quick recap of last episode and how it connects to this one
- The damaging myth of Homo Economicus - how, when and why it started (and who it serves)
- How this fictional story ended up shaping……um…everything, including you.
- Why do stories matter anyway?
- If we humans aren’t self-interested, calculating, rational, logical beings...well, what are we like?
- How this story specifically affects our mental and planetary health today
- What does Nature have to say about all this, and what 90's song reminds her of Homo Economicus?
Question, comment, complaint, idea? You can contact me here.
Thanks for being with me today. You rock.
