Evolution, Language, Domestication, Symbolic Cognition, AI & Large Language Models | Terrence Deacon | #141

Send us a text

About the Guest: Terrence Deacon, PhD is a Professor in the department of Anthropology at UC-Berkeley. He has written many papers and multiple books about the evolution of human language, origins of consciousness, and related topics.

Episode Summary: Nick and Dr. Deacon discuss various aspects of biological evolution, from natural vs. sexual selection to gene duplication and the consequences of domestication; the domestication of dogs and songbirds; human vs. non-human forms of vocal communication; ritual behavior & the origins symbolic cognition; artificial intelligence & large language models (LLMs); and more.

*This content is never meant to serve as medical advice.

Support the show

All episodes (audio & video), show notes, transcripts, and more at the M&M Substack

Affiliates:

• MASA Chips—delicious tortilla chips made from organic corn and grass-fed beef tallow. No seed oils, artificial ingredients, etc. Use code MIND for 20% off.
• SiPhox Health—Affordable, at-home bloodwork w/ a comprehensive set of key health marker. Use code TRIKOMES for a 10% discount.
• Lumen device to optimize your metabolism for weight loss or athletic performance. Use code MIND for 10% off.
• Athletic Greens: Comprehensive & convenient daily nutrition. Free 1-year supply of vitamin D with purchase.

Learn all the ways you can support my efforts