JRE #1663 – Edward Slingerland

This podcast explores the fascinating world of intoxication, dissecting the cultural and evolutionary reasons behind our penchant for getting hammered. Edward Slingerland, a philosophy professor, takes us on a journey that spans millennia, delving into the role of alcohol in human history, the evolution of our relationship with it, and the complex interplay of intoxication, creativity, and societal structures. Provocative topics include the potential role of intoxication in the development of civilization, the dangers of modern high-proof alcohol, and the cultural significance of hallucinogens. Underlying themes explore the complexities of human nature, our drive to transcend our own limitations, and the intricate dance between individual and societal needs.

Topics Explored:

1. The Paradox of “Wu Wei” (Effortless Action):

• Early Chinese philosophy emphasizes “Wu Wei,” a state of effortless action characterized by spontaneity and flow.
• Slingerland argues that alcohol can be seen as a cultural technology for achieving this state by temporarily dampening the prefrontal cortex.
• This raises the paradox of how to achieve spontaneity through conscious effort, as trying to relax can ironically make one more tense.
• Alcohol, when used appropriately, can help bypass this paradox by inducing a state of relaxed, effortless action.

2. The Evolution of Alcohol and its Effects:

• Humans have been making and consuming alcohol for thousands of years, likely before the advent of agriculture.
• Historically, alcohol was weaker (2-3% ABV) due to limitations of natural fermentation, providing a built-in safety mechanism.
• Distillation, a more recent invention, allowed for the creation of high-proof liquors, significantly increasing the potential for harm.
• Slingerland argues that our cultural and genetic evolution has not kept pace with this rapid increase in alcohol strength, leading to increased risks of addiction and social problems.

3. Alcohol as a Cultural Technology:

• Alcohol has played a crucial role in human history, facilitating social bonding, creativity, and cooperation.
• Slingerland posits that the desire for intoxication may have driven the development of agriculture, as hunter-gatherers sought to cultivate sources for beer and wine.
• Alcohol has been used in rituals, ceremonies, and social gatherings, allowing for increased trust and bonding, particularly when dealing with strangers.
• By temporarily turning down the prefrontal cortex, alcohol can unlock creativity, reduce inhibitions, and foster a sense of unity, leading to innovative ideas and solutions.

4. Alternative Paths to Altered States:

• While alcohol is a readily available and accessible method for achieving altered states, other options exist, such as exercise, meditation, and sleep deprivation.
• Exercise, particularly strenuous or prolonged activity, can trigger a “runner’s high” by reducing prefrontal cortex activity and inducing a sense of euphoria and detachment.
• Meditation, breathing exercises, and sleep deprivation can also induce altered states by manipulating brain chemistry and consciousness.
• Slingerland suggests that these alternative methods offer a more controlled and potentially less harmful path to achieving similar effects.

5. Hallucinogens and Their Impact:

• Hallucinogens, such as psilocybin mushrooms and Datura, have been used in various cultures for millennia, often in rituals and ceremonies.
• Slingerland argues that hallucinogens, like alcohol, can act as catalysts for cultural evolution by scrambling brain patterns and potentially leading to novel insights.
• However, the effects of hallucinogens are often unpredictable and can be intense, requiring specialized knowledge and guidance to navigate safely.
• Slingerland suggests that alcohol may offer a lower-risk, more accessible method for achieving similar creative and insightful states.

6. The Asian Flushing Gene Complex:

• A specific gene complex, prevalent in East Asia, affects alcohol metabolism, leading to flushing, nausea, and other uncomfortable reactions.
• This gene complex likely emerged around 7,000 years ago, coinciding with the rise of rice agriculture, and may have been an adaptation to the increased risk of tuberculosis and fungal poisoning.
• The presence of this gene complex suggests that alcohol consumption is not entirely a byproduct of evolutionary “mistakes,” but can also be subject to selective pressures.
• Interestingly, a chemical that mimics the effects of this gene complex is used to treat alcoholism, highlighting the potential benefits of a naturally occurring aversion to alcohol.

7. The Potential of Cannabis:

• Cannabis, while often celebrated for its recreational and therapeutic benefits, has also been linked to negative effects, including paranoia and psychotic breaks in some individuals.
• Slingerland argues that the lack of consistent and predictable effects across individuals makes cannabis less reliable than alcohol as a cultural technology.
• The unpredictability of cannabis, particularly edibles, makes it a risky option, especially for those with pre-existing mental health conditions.
• Slingerland highlights the need for more research into the effects of cannabis to better understand its potential benefits and risks.

8. The Simulation Theory and the Nature of Reality:

• The simulation theory proposes that our reality could be a computer-generated simulation, indistinguishable from reality itself.
• Advancements in virtual reality technology, coupled with the rapid pace of technological progress, make this theory increasingly plausible.
• Slingerland explores the implications of this theory, questioning the nature of our existence and the meaning we ascribe to it.
• The podcast touches upon philosophical arguments that have been debated for millennia, questioning the reliability of our senses and the possibility of being fundamentally deceived about the nature of reality.

9. The Role of the Prefrontal Cortex:

• Slingerland delves into the role of the prefrontal cortex (PFC), a region of the brain responsible for executive function, self-control, and cognitive control.
• The PFC is crucial for navigating social situations, making decisions, and inhibiting impulsive behavior, but it can also hinder creativity and spontaneity.
• Intoxicants, such as alcohol and hallucinogens, can temporarily dampen PFC activity, allowing for a more childlike, uninhibited, and creative state of mind.
• Slingerland suggests that this is why these substances are often associated with moments of breakthrough insights, relaxed social interactions, and creative expression.

10. The Human Ecosystem:

• Slingerland emphasizes the importance of diversity within human societies, recognizing that different personality traits and behaviors serve essential roles.
• Introverts, often stereotyped as less social and more introspective, can bring unique perspectives and ideas to the table, potentially contributing to innovation and problem-solving.
• The podcast touches on the complex dynamics of social interactions and the dangers of overly compassionate societies that may enable individuals who fail to contribute to the collective good.
• Slingerland argues that a balanced society needs individuals with a range of personalities and behaviors, fostering a healthy ecosystem where everyone can contribute their unique skills and perspectives.

11. The Dangers of Modern Isolation:

• The podcast explores the negative consequences of modern isolation, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.
• The shift from social environments like bars and restaurants to private homes has led to a significant increase in alcohol consumption and related problems, including addiction, weight gain, and domestic violence.
• Slingerland argues that the lack of social cues and restrictions in private settings makes it more challenging to moderate alcohol intake, exacerbating the potential for harm.
• He expresses concern about the long-term effects of social isolation on children, particularly their mental and emotional development.

12. The Importance of Humility:

• Slingerland highlights the importance of humility, recognizing the role of luck and privilege in shaping our lives.
• He reminds us that we often take our good fortune for granted, failing to acknowledge the countless factors that contribute to our well-being.
• The podcast emphasizes the need to be mindful of our biases and perspectives, acknowledging that we see the world through a lens shaped by our unique experiences and circumstances.
• Slingerland argues that embracing humility allows for a more balanced and empathetic understanding of ourselves and others.

13. The Hedonic Treadmill and the Pursuit of Happiness:

• The podcast explores the concept of the hedonic treadmill, a phenomenon where we adapt to our circumstances, making it difficult to achieve lasting happiness.
• As we acquire more wealth, status, or possessions, our expectations rise, leaving us constantly striving for the next goal, a cycle that can lead to perpetual dissatisfaction.
• Slingerland argues that this drive to acquire and achieve is deeply ingrained in our biology, as our genes benefit from our relentless striving.
• He suggests that various religious and philosophical traditions offer pathways for escaping this cycle, helping us appreciate the present moment and find contentment without constantly chasing external rewards.

14. The Importance of Genuine Connection:

• The podcast emphasizes the value of authentic connection and camaraderie, suggesting that these are ultimately more rewarding than fleeting successes or superficial relationships.
• Slingerland argues that genuine friendships and love provide deep and lasting benefits for both individuals and society, fostering trust, empathy, and mutual support.
• He warns against the dangers of sociopaths who may exploit these systems for personal gain, potentially causing harm to individuals and society.
• The podcast reminds us that true success lies not only in achieving external goals but also in cultivating meaningful relationships and contributing to the well-being of our communities.

15. The Power of Perspective:

• The podcast encourages listeners to step outside their comfort zones and seek perspectives that challenge their existing beliefs and assumptions.
• Slingerland emphasizes the value of engaging with diverse viewpoints, even those that we find uncomfortable or challenging.
• He argues that exposure to different ideas and perspectives can foster empathy, critical thinking, and a deeper understanding of the complexities of human nature.
• The podcast encourages listeners to embrace the unknown, to be open to new experiences, and to constantly strive for greater understanding.

Memorable Quotes:

• “Alcohol is a way to kinda directly reach into your brain and just turn down your prefrontal cortex a little bit so you can relax.” – Slingerland’s succinct description of alcohol’s effect on the brain.
• “It’s possible that the desire to make beer and wine is what motivated agriculture.” – A provocative theory suggesting that our pursuit of intoxication may have shaped the course of human civilization.
• “Alcohol is doing a lot of things at the same time. It’s turning down your prefrontal cortex. It’s making you feel better, so it’s boosting serotonin and endorphins. It’s making you feel People who are drunk think they’re more attractive, and they see other people as more attractive. So the beer goggles thing is is true.” – Slingerland elaborates on the multifaceted effects of alcohol on human perception and behavior.
• “We’re primates. We’re our nature is to be kind of selfish and suspicious and hostile.” – A stark reminder of our inherent primate nature, which underscores the importance of cultural mechanisms for fostering cooperation.
• “I think our problem is by not acknowledging that we we don’t recognize that there’s not just strategies but there’s there’s methods where you do it correctly.” – Slingerland highlights the need for a more nuanced understanding of intoxication, recognizing that there are both beneficial and harmful ways to engage with these substances.