Wood From Eden

Wood From Eden explores the intersections of evolutionary psychology, societal norms, and human behavior. It delves into topics like fertility rates, patriarchal structures, the philosophy of happiness, and the impact of modern technologies and economies on human societies. The substack also touches on current events, historical analyses, and personal improvement through evolutionary psychology.

Evolutionary Psychology Societal Norms Human Behavior Fertility Rates Patriarchal Structures Philosophy of Happiness Impact of Modern Technologies Economic Influences on Society Historical Analysis Personal Improvement

The hottest Substack posts of Wood From Eden

And their main takeaways

Paid content: Parables for pruning an apple tree

336 implied HN points • 28 Feb 25
🍲 Food & Drink Gardening Sustainability Cooking Agriculture
  1. Pruning an apple tree is important for its health and growth. It helps the tree produce better fruit and stay strong.
  2. There are techniques to prune effectively that can improve the overall structure of the tree. Learning these can make caring for a tree easier.
  3. Knowing when and how to prune is key to successful gardening. Timing your pruning can lead to the best results for your apple tree.

Guest post: The Global IQ Debate: A Modest Contribution From A Resident African

9312 implied HN points • 08 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Intelligence Society Education Identity Racism
  1. Living in a society with a low average IQ can shape people's abilities and social structures differently than in higher IQ societies. Even with low IQ scores, many can still function well in their communities, often adapting culturally.
  2. Education systems may favor rote learning over creativity, so high IQ individuals might struggle in these environments. The focus is often on memorization rather than understanding concepts, leading to discrepancies between IQ and academic performance.
  3. Cultural values and personality traits can impact societal progress. In places where tribal or religious affiliations dominate, collective efforts toward improvement can be hindered by corruption and a lack of scientific reasoning.

Paid content: How to lead a working family

432 implied HN points • 21 Feb 25
  1. Balancing work and family life is important for a happy home. Finding the right strategies can help manage both responsibilities.
  2. Open communication among family members can lead to better teamwork. It's good to discuss challenges and support each other.
  3. Creating a routine can help everyone stay organized and reduce stress. A schedule makes it easier to know when to work and when to relax.

We need to think about Africa

1728 implied HN points • 24 Jan 25
🌍 World Politics Demography Migration Globalization Geopolitics Development
  1. Africa's population is growing quickly and will represent a large part of the world in the future. It's important for the rest of the world to pay attention to this change.
  2. Ignoring Africa's potential problems could lead to bigger issues later on. We may need to think about ways to help cope with possible crises.
  3. Instead of only debating about challenges in Africa, we should start thinking of solutions now. Preparing early can help everyone in the future.

Parent shaming is natural

2976 implied HN points • 05 Jan 25
  1. Parent shaming is something that happens naturally in society. People often feel upset when they see other parents not meeting certain standards.
  2. Throughout history, cultures have created rules to manage this shaming so that communities can thrive. Societies where people can tolerate each other's parenting tend to survive better.
  3. It’s important to find a balance in how we judge parenting. Too much pressure and shame can harm families, making it harder for them to raise children well.
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Paid content: Against vacuum cleaning

336 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
🕹 Technology Consumer Tech Innovation Sustainability
  1. Technology isn't just about smartphones; we should think about other gadgets too. Getting rid of more tech can help simplify our lives.
  2. Vacuum cleaning might not be the best choice for keeping our spaces tidy. There are other, simpler methods to clean without using machines.
  3. It's good to question the tools we use daily. Sometimes, going back to basics can be healthier and more efficient.

The Anti-Autism Manifesto

5952 implied HN points • 15 Nov 24
🏥 Health Politics Mental health Disability Rights Psychoanalysis
  1. The high-functioning autism label may not accurately describe many individuals who don't fit classic autism criteria, but rather those with unique personality traits.
  2. There are concerns that mental health professionals overlook disorders like schizoid personality disorder by mislabeling them as autism, which can hinder proper treatment.
  3. Mental health discussions should acknowledge individual preferences and personality differences rather than solely focusing on skills or deficits.

Paid content: Playing the arborist

336 implied HN points • 07 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Fashion Food Travel
  1. Being an arborist involves caring for trees and understanding their growth. It's important to know how to maintain their health and beauty.
  2. There are different methods and tools used in arboriculture to safely manage trees. Learning these techniques can help prevent damage and promote growth.
  3. Working with trees requires both knowledge and respect for nature. Arborists play a big role in keeping our environment healthy and beautiful.

The opportunity theory of depression

3936 implied HN points • 28 Nov 24
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health Psychology Adaptation Evolutionary Theory Social Status
  1. Depression can happen when people feel there are no good opportunities in their lives. It's like a warning sign telling them to pause and wait for a better situation.
  2. Humans seek to feel useful and appreciated, which is different from just seeking social status. Feeling unimportant can lead to feelings of sadness or depression.
  3. Teenagers today sometimes feel low because they are seen as separate from adults and lack meaningful roles in society. This can make them feel powerless and contribute to depression.

Paid content: Having kids is seriously fun

528 implied HN points • 24 Jan 25
  1. Building a family can be just as enjoyable as other successes in life. It's about finding fun moments in parenting.
  2. Having kids brings a lot of joy and laughter into daily life. Those little moments can create lasting memories.
  3. Success in parenting requires effort, much like other achievements. The rewards, however, make it all worth it.

Paid content: Cake season

336 implied HN points • 31 Jan 25
🍲 Food & Drink Baking Seasonal Recipes Desserts Food culture
  1. Cake season is a time for celebration and enjoyment. It brings joy to people as they gather for sweet treats.
  2. Having a variety of cakes can make any occasion special. Different flavors and styles can cater to everyone's taste.
  3. This content is available to paid subscribers, highlighting the value of exclusive information or access. It encourages readers to support the work they enjoy.

When will psychiatry invent the barcode?

1344 implied HN points • 04 Dec 24
🏥 Health Politics Mental health Psychiatry Diagnosis Research Data Analysis
  1. Psychiatry has a problem with labels. Many old labels have been removed without clear replacements, making research and understanding harder.
  2. Using numbers instead of words could help describe a person's mental health better. A barcode-like system could show traits and abilities at a glance.
  3. Psychology is subjective and changes over time. Collecting more data through tests can help improve understanding and research in mental health.

An uncivil civil war

2016 implied HN points • 04 Nov 24
💾 History Civil War Political Conflict Cultural History Social movements Nationalism
  1. Civil wars often have deep political or ideological divides. In Finland's case, it was the working class versus the upper class, which led to a very intense conflict over power.
  2. The formation of armed groups was crucial in the lead-up to the Finnish Civil War. Both the workers and the upper class created their own forces, which escalated tensions.
  3. Post-war, Finland struggled with the aftermath of the violence but eventually unified. A process of reflection and an amnesty helped rebuild society despite longstanding divisions.

Paid content: Can women think?

576 implied HN points • 27 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Gender Studies Society Philosophy Equality Social Issues
  1. The topic discusses women's ability to think critically and independently. It's important to recognize and value women's perspectives and intellect.
  2. Challenging stereotypes about women's thinking can lead to more inclusive conversations. Everyone should have equal opportunities to share their ideas.
  3. Encouraging discussions about gender and intelligence can help break down societal biases. Open dialogue promotes understanding and respect among all individuals.

Paid content: A European sense of style

336 implied HN points • 13 Dec 24
🏝 Travel Travel tips Cultural Insights
  1. European style is often seen as elegant and fashionable. Many people admire its simplicity and sophistication.
  2. Traveling gives a glimpse into different cultures and their unique styles. It's a fun way to experience how others live.
  3. Understanding style can enhance one's own taste in fashion and home decor. Learning from different places can inspire personal choices.

Paid content: Stuff that isn't useless

384 implied HN points • 06 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Lifestyle Gifts Consumerism Trends Sustainability
  1. The post suggests a list of useful material things to own. These items have been tested and proved their worth over time.
  2. It focuses on practical gifts to consider before the holiday season. The idea is to avoid useless items and choose things that bring real value.
  3. The content is meant for paid subscribers, indicating it's exclusive and curated for those willing to invest in quality information.

Paid content: Packing the spring box

240 implied HN points • 20 Dec 24
🍲 Food & Drink Gardening Sustainability Cooking Nutrition Seasonal
  1. Packing a spring box is an important task for preparing for the season. It involves organizing and storing supplies that will help with gardening and planting.
  2. Creating a rational vegetable garden can lead to better productivity and more enjoyable gardening experiences. Planning ahead and using resources wisely is key.
  3. Paid subscriptions can provide access to special content that dives deeper into gardening topics. This can help gardeners learn more and improve their skills.

Paid content: Learning to vacation

384 implied HN points • 01 Nov 24
🏝 Travel Family Travel Travel tips Cultural experiences
  1. Traveling with kids can be fun and rewarding, not just stressful. It helps you create special memories together.
  2. You might learn new things and grow as a family when you explore new places. It's a great way to bond and discover together.
  3. Taking vacations can change your perspective on family time and offer exciting experiences. It's worth trying, even if you have doubts at first.

Paid content: All cities are the same

240 implied HN points • 29 Nov 24
🏝 Travel Cultural Exploration Road trips City life Travel Writing
  1. Cities often feel very similar to one another. It can be hard to tell them apart when visiting new places.
  2. Traveling can give a sense of familiarity, even in different locations. Many experiences repeat, making them feel comfortable.
  3. Understanding this can change how we view travel. Instead of seeking newness, we might focus on the connections we share, wherever we go.

Paid conent: Tove K's guide to hotels

288 implied HN points • 08 Nov 24
🏝 Travel Hotels Guides Tourism Hospitality Experiences
  1. The guide offers exclusive insights about hotels from someone who used to work as a chambermaid. It's meant to help travelers make better choices when booking their stays.
  2. The content is only available for paid subscribers, which means you have to pay to access the full guide and its tips.
  3. Tove K shares personal experiences and knowledge, giving a unique perspective on what to expect in hotels. This can be really helpful for anyone planning a trip.

Paid content: The space station on Earth

240 implied HN points • 16 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Music Fashion Faith
  1. The concept of a space station on Earth suggests a unique space for exploration and innovation. It's like having a mini-universe right here at home.
  2. Paid content often provides deeper insights that you might not find elsewhere. This could encourage people to subscribe for more exclusive information.
  3. Engaging with paid content might help support creators and allow them to continue sharing valuable ideas.

Slightly against human nature

1392 implied HN points • 19 Feb 24
🏥 Health & Wellness Childhood Trauma Stability Child development
  1. Foster care systems often fail to provide stable living conditions for children from adverse circumstances, impacting their chances in life.
  2. Research suggests that, on average, foster care does not provide better outcomes for children compared to staying with their birth families.
  3. Human nature and the need for stability suggest that foster children face unique challenges, including a lack of consistent relationships and environments.

Make children part of the competition of life

1056 implied HN points • 11 Mar 24
  1. Children should be included in the competition of life to increase their value and importance in society.
  2. There is a need to change the societal mindset to make raising a family as important as excelling in a career.
  3. Creating labor market sanctuaries for parents and making family a part of the competition can help reverse the trend of declining birth rates.

Capitalism put an end to systematic warfare

960 implied HN points • 11 Dec 23
🌍 World Politics Warfare Evolution Economics Capitalism
  1. Capitalism led to the decline of systematic warfare as the main way for producers to compete.
  2. Human evolution has been a struggle between individual and group selection, where societies with best productivity survived wars.
  3. The shift to the market economy allowed producers to compete directly, promoting productivity without the need for destructive warfare.

The philosophy of Peter Turchin

1296 implied HN points • 21 Sep 23
📖 Philosophy Human Psychology Evolutionary Theory Social theory
  1. Peter Turchin studies human populations like animal populations, focusing on carrying capacity and elite overproduction.
  2. Turchin's theory involves cycles of immiseration, unrest, and epidemics in societies.
  3. Turchin's idea of macroevolution and human psychology connects to Jonathan Haidt's analogy of people forming opinions based on emotions.

Philosophy is the mathematics of language

816 implied HN points • 23 Dec 23
📖 Philosophy Language Mathematics Concepts Logic Epistemology
  1. Philosophy is the art of clarifying concepts and finding links between them.
  2. Philosophy is similar to mathematics in that it explores relationships between concepts, just as mathematics explores relationships between numbers.
  3. Concepts in philosophy change over time, making it a field that evolves constantly unlike mathematics which is built on stable concepts.

AI images litter the internet

528 implied HN points • 18 Mar 24
🎨 Art & Illustration AI Art Visual storytelling
  1. AI-generated images are becoming prevalent on the internet, but their superficiality can hinder deeper meaning and understanding.
  2. The proliferation of AI images can crowd out images of real people and places, which traditionally provide more valuable information and opportunities for discovery.
  3. In a digital age where sharing reality is crucial, efforts should be made to prioritize genuine, real-world images over AI-generated ones to maintain authenticity and meaning.

Gender transitioning is great for the 1 percent

1056 implied HN points • 05 Sep 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Teenagers
  1. Gender transitioning can have a significant impact on society, not just individuals.
  2. Allowing teenagers to undergo life-changing treatments before 18 can lead to different outcomes in appearance and identity.
  3. The focus shouldn't solely be on individual happiness in body modification decisions, but also consider societal implications.

The Wood From Eden book recommendations page

432 implied HN points • 06 Feb 24
📚 Literature Anthropology History Psychology Philosophy
  1. It's valuable to explore book recommendations even if you can't read them all from cover to cover.
  2. Readers can share book and film recommendations on specific categories on the Wood From Eden book recommendations page.
  3. The principle behind the recommendations page is to create a space for like-minded readers to share and discover new, interesting books and films.

The origins of patriarchy

1392 implied HN points • 17 Jan 23
  1. Patriarchy has roots in the success of male-dominated military cooperation throughout history.
  2. Successful societies in history had a warrior class ruling over others, but industrial warfare and female inclusion changed this dynamic.
  3. Different societies had varying levels of patriarchy due to memetic drift and class structures affecting norms around gender roles.

Men consume relationships. Women produce them.

720 implied HN points • 31 Aug 23
🎭️ Culture Relationships Gender Social Dynamics Human behavior
  1. Women tend to consider relationships as work, while men view them as leisure.
  2. Men often approach romantic relationships like consumers, while women see them as a project to build and maintain.
  3. There is a difference in the amount of intellectual investment that men and women put into relationships, with women generally devoting more intellectual effort.