JRE #879 – Steven Rinella

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11/30/2016







#879 – Steven Rinella

This episode of the Joe Rogan Experience dives deep into the world of hunting and conservation with Steven Rinella, a seasoned outdoorsman, author, and TV host. The conversation explores a wide range of topics, from the ethics of hunting to the complexities of wildlife management, touching upon controversial ideas and sparking intriguing discussions.

Underlying themes explore the importance of understanding our relationship with nature, the challenges of preserving wild landscapes, and the need for informed perspectives on wildlife management.

Topics Covered:

  1. MeatEater on Netflix
    1. Rinella discusses the success of his show “MeatEater” on Netflix, which has introduced a new audience to the world of hunting and conservation.
    2. He credits the show’s unique approach, emphasizing both the hunting experience and the natural world surrounding it, with its broad appeal.
    3. Rinella shares his thoughts on the importance of presenting hunting in a responsible and engaging way, highlighting the ethical considerations and the educational aspects of the pursuit.
    4. He emphasizes the need for authenticity and showcasing the hard work and dedication involved in ethical hunting.
  2. The Power of Music in Media
    1. Rinella and Rogan discuss the impact of music in TV shows and movies, particularly in relation to hunting shows.
    2. They critique the often-clichéd and manipulative use of music, arguing that it can detract from the authenticity of the experience.
    3. Rinella shares his own preference for subtle and unexpected music choices, highlighting the importance of finding a sound that complements the visuals without dictating the audience’s emotions.
    4. He emphasizes the importance of respecting the integrity of the scene and allowing the viewers to connect with the experience organically.
  3. Hunting as a Gateway Drug to the Outdoors
    1. Rinella and Rogan explore the idea that hunting can serve as a gateway for people to connect with the natural world.
    2. They discuss how shows like “The Last Frontier” and “Mountain Men” can pique people’s interest in outdoor activities, providing an entry point to more immersive experiences.
    3. They acknowledge the potential for people to be turned off by the wrong type of hunting show, emphasizing the importance of finding content that is authentic and engaging.
    4. The conversation highlights the need for responsible and accessible outdoor education, particularly in a modern society increasingly disconnected from nature.
  4. Evolution of Hunting Practices and Safety
    1. Rinella and Rogan discuss the evolution of hunting practices and safety standards over time, sharing anecdotes from their own experiences and those of others.
    2. The conversation explores the changing societal norms surrounding firearms and the shift in attitudes towards hunting and gun ownership.
    3. They touch upon the issue of “going postal,” examining the history of mass shootings in post offices and questioning the factors that contributed to this phenomenon.
    4. The conversation highlights the complexities of gun culture, mental health, and the need for nuanced discussions about responsible firearm ownership.
  5. The American Gun Culture and Mental Health
    1. Rinella and Rogan discuss the American gun culture, the pervasiveness of firearms in society, and the complex relationship between gun ownership and mental health.
    2. They challenge the notion that guns are the sole or primary cause of mass shootings, arguing for a broader understanding of the psychological factors and societal issues at play.
    3. Rinella expresses his belief that America has a mental health problem disguised as a gun problem, advocating for a more holistic approach to addressing violence and instability.
    4. The conversation sheds light on the need for open and honest conversations about mental health, social isolation, and the responsibility we all share in creating a safer society.
  6. Public Lands and the Future of Conservation
    1. Rinella delves into the complexities of public lands in the US, discussing the role of the federal government in managing these vast resources.
    2. He highlights the ongoing debate surrounding the potential privatization or transfer of public lands to states, examining the motivations behind these proposals.
    3. Rinella emphasizes the importance of preserving public lands for future generations, arguing that they are a valuable resource for recreation, wildlife habitat, and overall environmental health.
    4. He discusses the historical significance of public lands and the legacy of conservationists like Theodore Roosevelt, advocating for continued protection and responsible management.
  7. Yellowstone Syndrome and Wildlife Management
    1. Rinella introduces the concept of “Yellowstone Syndrome,” highlighting the potential for the idealized image of Yellowstone National Park to create unrealistic expectations about wildlife management in other contexts.
    2. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing the inevitable conflicts that arise between wildlife and human societies, particularly in areas outside of protected parks.
    3. Rinella discusses the challenges of managing wildlife populations, such as the brucellosis issue with bison leaving Yellowstone, highlighting the complexities of balancing conservation with human interests.
    4. The conversation encourages a more nuanced understanding of wildlife management, acknowledging the need for science-based approaches and collaborative solutions.
  8. The History of Bison and Their Relationship with Humans
    1. Rinella and Rogan dive into the fascinating history of bison in North America, exploring the animal’s relationship with Native American tribes and its impact on the ecological landscape.
    2. They discuss the controversial theory that Native Americans, with the introduction of horses and firearms, were already on the path to decimating bison populations before European settlers arrived.
    3. Rinella shares insights from his own research and the work of Dan Flores, highlighting the role of disease, technology, and changing agricultural practices in the dramatic decline of bison.
    4. The conversation sheds light on the complex and often misunderstood history of human interaction with wildlife, emphasizing the need for historical context when analyzing conservation efforts.
  9. The Ethics of Wildlife Management and the “Yellowstone Syndrome”
    1. Rinella and Rogan continue their exploration of wildlife management, focusing on the challenges of managing bison populations outside of Yellowstone.
    2. They discuss the “Yellowstone Syndrome,” emphasizing the need for a nuanced understanding of wildlife management in different contexts and the conflicts that arise between human interests and conservation.
    3. Rinella highlights the ethical dilemmas surrounding the culling of bison that leave Yellowstone, explaining the concerns about brucellosis transmission to cattle.
    4. The conversation challenges simplistic solutions and encourages thoughtful discussions about balancing ecological concerns with human needs, highlighting the need for a more holistic approach to wildlife management.
  10. The Controversial Subject of Bringing Back Extinct Animals
    1. Rinella and Rogan delve into the fascinating and controversial topic of de-extinction, the possibility of bringing back extinct animals through scientific methods.
    2. They explore the ethical implications of this technology, particularly in relation to the Pleistocene extinction, which coincided with human arrival in the Americas.
    3. Rinella shares his own perspective on de-extinction, expressing caution about the potential for unintended consequences and emphasizing the importance of addressing the underlying causes of extinction.
    4. The conversation raises important questions about our role in shaping the future of life on Earth and the ethical responsibilities we have to both current and past ecosystems.
  11. The Importance of Understanding Wildlife Relationships
    1. Rinella highlights the importance of understanding the complex relationships between different wildlife species, particularly the roles of predators and prey.
    2. He discusses the impact of the reintroduction of wolves into Yellowstone on elk populations, demonstrating the interconnectedness of ecosystems and the need for a comprehensive view of wildlife dynamics.
    3. Rinella emphasizes the importance of observing wildlife behavior, emphasizing the unique characteristics of different species and the lessons we can learn by paying attention to their interactions.
    4. The conversation encourages a deeper appreciation for the intricate web of life and the value of understanding the natural world.
  12. The Controversial Subject of Animal Rights and Hunting
    1. Rinella and Rogan engage in a thoughtful discussion about animal rights and hunting, exploring the ethical implications of both sides of the debate.
    2. Rinella discusses his conversation with Robert Jones, an animal rights activist, highlighting the concept of “speciesism” and the need for ethical considerations in our treatment of all sentient beings.
    3. The conversation raises complex questions about the role of humans in the natural world, the ethics of killing animals for food or other purposes, and the need for a more nuanced understanding of both sides of the debate.
    4. They discuss the importance of respecting different cultures and perspectives, acknowledging the challenges of reconciling seemingly contradictory values.
  13. The Role of Indigenous Hunting Cultures in the Debate
    1. Rinella and Rogan delve into the complexities of indigenous hunting cultures, acknowledging both their historical significance and the need for contemporary ethical considerations.
    2. They discuss the argument that indigenous peoples had a deep spiritual connection with nature and a reverence for the animals they hunted, which justified their practices.
    3. Rinella challenges this argument, acknowledging that animals still suffer regardless of the hunter’s motivations and questioning the validity of applying different ethical standards to different cultures.
    4. The conversation raises important questions about the evolution of human-wildlife relationships, the need for empathy across cultures, and the ongoing debate about the ethics of hunting.
  14. The Hypocrisy of Animal Rights in Modern Society
    1. Rinella and Rogan discuss the inherent contradictions and hypocrisy within the animal rights movement, highlighting the complexities of applying ethical principles in a real-world context.
    2. They examine the issue of companion animals, particularly cats, and the ethical implications of their role in the food chain, raising questions about the selective application of animal rights principles.
    3. The conversation explores the hypocrisy of condemning hunting while consuming factory-farmed meat, highlighting the need for a more consistent and holistic approach to animal welfare.
    4. They discuss the limitations of drawing rigid lines and the need for a nuanced understanding of human-animal relationships, acknowledging that there are no easy answers.
  15. The Importance of Respecting Wildlife and Understanding their Behavior
    1. Rinella emphasizes the importance of respecting wildlife and understanding their unique characteristics and behaviors.
    2. He shares his personal experiences with different species, describing the unique way that white-tailed deer, bears, and lynx interact with humans.
    3. Rinella discusses the importance of observation and learning from animals, highlighting the insights we can gain by immersing ourselves in the natural world.
    4. The conversation encourages a deeper appreciation for the diversity of wildlife and the need for empathy and understanding.
  16. The Value of Hunting Big Game and the Ethics of Trophy Hunting
    1. Rinella and Rogan discuss the challenges and rewards of hunting big game, emphasizing the importance of ethical hunting practices and responsible conservation.
    2. They touch upon the issue of trophy hunting, acknowledging the ethical concerns while also highlighting the potential benefits, such as promoting conservation efforts and supporting local communities.
    3. Rinella discusses his own approach to hunting, emphasizing the importance of respect for the animals, responsible use of the resources, and the pursuit of ethical hunting practices.
    4. The conversation encourages a thoughtful exploration of the ethics of hunting, acknowledging the complexities of the issue and the need for nuanced discussions.
  17. The Impact of Technology on Hunting and Conservation
    1. Rinella and Rogan discuss the impact of technology on hunting and conservation, exploring both the potential benefits and the ethical concerns.
    2. They examine the use of walkie-talkies and other communication devices in hunting, highlighting the importance of establishing boundaries and respecting ethical hunting practices.
    3. Rinella expresses his concerns about the potential for drones to be used in hunting, advocating for responsible regulations and ethical considerations in the use of emerging technology.
    4. The conversation encourages a proactive approach to technology, highlighting the need for careful consideration of the long-term consequences for both wildlife and human interactions with nature.
  18. The Importance of Responsible Hunting Practices and Conservation
    1. Rinella and Rogan reiterate the importance of responsible hunting practices and conservation efforts, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach to managing wildlife populations.
    2. They discuss the role of hunters in contributing to conservation, advocating for sustainable hunting practices and the support of wildlife management programs.
    3. Rinella highlights the value of understanding the ecological interconnectedness of different species and the need for comprehensive conservation strategies.
    4. The conversation encourages a shared responsibility for protecting wildlife and ensuring the long-term health of our natural world.
  19. The Importance of Critical Thinking and Open-Mindedness
    1. Rinella and Rogan discuss the importance of critical thinking, open-mindedness, and the willingness to challenge preconceived notions.
    2. They acknowledge the tendency for people to live in echo chambers, surrounding themselves with like-minded individuals and reinforcing existing beliefs.
    3. They emphasize the value of engaging with diverse perspectives, even those that challenge our own, and the need to be open to learning and changing our minds.
    4. The conversation encourages a more thoughtful and nuanced approach to engaging with complex issues, advocating for a spirit of curiosity and intellectual humility.
  20. The Importance of Understanding History and the Past
    1. Rinella and Rogan discuss the importance of understanding history, particularly in the context of conservation and wildlife management.
    2. They critique the historical inaccuracies and liberties taken in the movie “The Revenant,” highlighting the need for historical accuracy and respect for the past.
    3. Rinella emphasizes the importance of learning from past mistakes, acknowledging the role of human actions in shaping the natural world and the need for informed decision-making going forward.
    4. The conversation encourages a deeper understanding of our place in history and the importance of respecting the past while shaping a more sustainable future.
  21. The Importance of Authenticity and Ethical Considerations in Media
    1. Rinella and Rogan discuss the importance of authenticity and ethical considerations in media, particularly in relation to reality television and hunting shows.
    2. They critique the tendency for some producers to sensationalize and manipulate events for entertainment value, highlighting the need for a more responsible approach.
    3. Rinella emphasizes the importance of showcasing the reality of hunting and conservation, highlighting the hard work, dedication, and ethical considerations involved.
    4. The conversation encourages a more thoughtful and nuanced approach to media, advocating for authenticity, respect, and a genuine interest in understanding the natural world.

Memorable Quotes:

  • “If you’re doing a show in West Virginia and someone’d be like, ‘oh, yeah. kick it off of some banjo music.’ You know what I mean? It’s like, I hate that kind of decision making.”
  • “This country has a mental health problem, disguised as a gun problem.”
  • “It’s like blaming forks on people getting fat. It doesn’t make sense.”
  • “I think that extinction, like, human cause extinction is is It’s terrifying. Do you support if there is evidence of human cause human cause extinction if there is the opportunity to bring something back through scientific methods? through, like, some sort of cloning. Do you support that, or you think it’s gone? It’s gone. It’s gone.”
  • “I’ve always had this thing about bears, and then I hunted bear and ate bear, and then that thing went away. It just means it’s what it is. But it still doesn’t seem the same to me as like a deer.”


 

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