Why do we have weak stomachs and big brains? How is our cognition different from chimpanzees? Join Ishita Ray and Joseph Shaules as they explore how culture has shaped genetic evolution. Millions of years ago, as culture became increasingly key to human survival, a chain reaction of culture-genetic evolution reshaped our body, brain and mind—culture made us human. Based on the work of evolutionary biologist Joseph Henrich.
Is love the same all over the world? Join Lia (Torhild Liane Skårnes) and Joseph Shaules as they discuss the excitement and challenges of intercultural relationships. We learn how cultural difference can catch us off guard because our of cognitive “autopilot”. We explore cultural differences in communication, child-rearing, gender expectations, and more. Stories from Kasia (Katarzyna Grzesik-Harz), Emre Seven, Sanne Bosma and Ishita Ray.
Are you frustrated with language learning? It’s no surprise! Join Joseph Shaules and Ishita Ray as they explore why foreign language learning is both frustrating and life-changing. They explore the deep connection between language and culture, and the embodied nature of linguistic processing. We hear personal stories about the pleasures and pitfalls of navigating new linguaculture worlds from Bridget van de Grootevheen, Ade Putri Verlita Maharani, Makiko Endo Kimura, Emre Seven and Torhild Liane Harr Skarnes.
How do you navigate between different moral worldviews? In Part 2 of this two-part episode, Joseph Shaules and Ishita Ray explore the connection between culture and religion. We learn about moral intuitions—the feelings of right and wrong that guide our moral compass. We explore why religion is such a touchy topic, and hear about the challenges of navigating different moral realities from: Sanne Bosma, Emre Seven, and Safa Abdul Rezak. We find inspiration in those who find ways to bridge these gaps and reconcile different truths.
Are you a believer? 84% of the world’s population identifies with religion, yet intercultural education barely mentions the topic. In Part 1 of this two-part episode, Joseph Shaules and Ishita Ray explore the connection between culture and religion. We learn how culture shapes attitudes towards secular and religious values from: Sanne Bosma, Emre Seven, Torhild Liane Harr Skarnes, Luan Borges de Carvalho, and P. V Satyanarayana Raju. Religious studies scholar David Shaules argues that religion and culture are closely related, and that secular values do not magically make us neutral. In Part 2, we will hear the experiences of those navigating in and between religious and secular worldviews.
