Ethnocynology
Ethnocynology is the study of dogs in human cultural contexts. This podcast, hosted by anthropologist and comedian David Ian Howe, explores the history and archaeology of dogs, the roles of dogs in modern media, and the latest findings from archaeology in general.
Nature is Not Metal with Bradley Rydholm - Ep 39
In this episode of Ethnocynology, David sits down with Bradley Rydholm of Nature Is Not Metal to discuss animal cognition, ecology, and humanity’s relationship with the natural world. Bradley shares the story behind his popular Instagram page, his work as an outdoor educator, and why he believes wild animals possess rich social lives and individual personalities that are often overlooked.
The conversation explores everything from wolves to topics like anthropomorphism, cooperation in nature, and the emotional lives of animals. David and Bradley also discuss how experiences in the wilderness can change the way people view themselves, other species, and the world around them.
Argos, the Odyssey, and dogs in popular Media with Dr. Alyce Cannon - Ep 38
n this episode of Ethnocynology, David chats with friend of the show Dr. Alyce Cannon, who is an expert in classics and dogs in the classical world.
The discussion begins with an overview of Alyce’s research an ancient Greece and how dogs appear in pottery after the great Athenian plague.
Then they begin to discuss Odysseus’s dog Argos in Home’s Odyssey: his roles, significance, and sad story. And discussed as well as whether or not he will be in the new Christopher Nolan version of the epic poem.
Towards the end of the episode, the two discuss dogs and popular media and why the dog always has to die in films, and what this means for the human mind and it’s connection to the ancient Classics.
10 Dog Archaeology Questions Answered - Ep 37
In this Q&A episode of Ethnocynology, David answers listener questions about dogs, archaeology, human evolution, and the ancient past. From whether Neanderthals had dogs, to why humans mourn dogs so deeply, to what ancient people may have named their dogs, this episode explores the relationship between humans and dogs across history. David also discusses archaeological misconceptions, Ice Age societies, ancient dog breeds, civilization, language, and what life may have actually looked like 20,000 years ago.