E61: The Social Domain of Stuff

Humans began as nomadic wanderers, carrying only what was essential for survival. Over time, as societies developed, so did the accumulation of possessions, with “stuff” becoming a significant part of our social lives and identities. The objects we surround ourselves with often carry social and cultural meaning, reflecting our status, beliefs, and values.

In the social domain of stuff, Kirtly Jones, MD, speaks with cultural anthropologist Polly Wiessner, PhD, to explore the social and anthropological perspectives on "stuff." They discuss how and when humans transitioned from being nomadic to collecting possessions, what this shift reveals about our human behavior, community, and culture, and the complex relationships we have with material goods and how they shape—and are shaped by—social dynamics.