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The Superorganism Explained in 7 Minutes | Frankly 97

Nate Hagens 132,445 2 weeks ago
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(Recorded May 26, 2025) In a world grappling with converging crises, we often look outward – for new tech, new markets, new distractions. But the deeper issue lies within: our relationship with energy, nature, and each other. What if we step back far enough to see human civilization itself as an organism that is growing without a plan? In this week’s Frankly — adapted from a recent TED talk like presentation (called Ignite) — Nate outlines how humanity is part of a global economic superorganism, driven by abundant energy and the emergent properties of billions of humans working towards the same goal. Rather than focusing on surface-level solutions, Nate invites us to confront the underlying dynamics of consumption and profit. It’s a perspective that defies soundbite culture — requiring not a slogan, but a deeper reckoning with how the world actually works. These are not quick-fix questions, but the kinds that demand slow thinking in a world hooked on speed. What if infinite growth on a finite planet isn't just unrealistic – but the root of our unfolding crisis? In a system designed for more, how do we begin to value enough? And at this civilizational crossroads, what will you choose to nurture: power, or life? Show Notes and More: https://www.thegreatsimplification.com/frankly-original/97-the-superorganism-in-7-minutes Help shape the future of TGS by taking our 10-minute Learning & Training Survey: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdPXUrizAufneXY8tplAVyE8fVwhSz5soSLPvG5wN5322Y_WQ/viewform --- Want to learn the broad overview of The Great Simplification in 30 minutes? Watch our Animated Movie: https://youtu.be/-xr9rIQxwj4?feature=shared Support The Institute for the Study of Energy and Our Future: https://www.thegreatsimplification.com/support Join our Substack newsletter: https://natehagens.substack.com/ Join our Discord channel and connect with other listeners: https://discord.gg/ZFfQqtqMJf --- 00:00 - Introduction 02:45 - The Superorganism in 7 Minutes 03:33 - Energy 04:14 - The Carbon Pulse 05:20 - The Economic Superorganism 08:04 - Limits to Growth 09:30 - The Great Simplification 11:10 - What Can We Do? 12:45 - Closing Thoughts

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