ENGL 105.097 - Spring 2023

In this episode from Channel 105, we discuss the relationship between belonging and isolation — from animal and fungal communities to language barriers or forms of censorship. Does the need to belong make us human? To what extent are people willing to give up their individuality to become part of a group, and when do forms of community become hindrances to free expression, or self-actualization?

Mushroom Music

Jonathan Dai and Susannah Peterson

In this segment, Susannnah and Jonathan consider how our experience of connectedness as humans is also deeply entangled with non-human life forms, like fungi. This topic is explored through a discussion of the science of fungi and their unique biological makeup and the historical significance of mushrooms across human cultures. From their ancient medicinal uses, to the more recent phenomenon of ‘mushroom music’, we examine how fungi always have, and will continue to, impact our world.

Animal Sociality

Clair Kenefick and Eddie Harvey

In this segment, Eddie and Clair discuss belonging and isolation through the lens of animals. Within nature social behavior exists along a spectrum, but how do different organizations and ways of communication play a role in developing animal social structures? What does this mean for humans? To explore this question, they examine three different species: honey bees, lemurs, and a blue whale.

Language Barriers

Victor Nguyen and Zach Jimerson

In this segment, Zach and Victor discuss languages, their evolution, and how dialects are created due to factors such as isolation, colonization, and where you live. Following interviews with classmates, and family members they ask if there is a way to overcome these language barriers in order to form a more inclusive community?

Censorship

Derek Godwin and Camryn Young

From nation-states to average citizens, most people have interacted with censorship. But how does censorship impact our learning, our interactions - and ultimately - life around us? To scrutinize this broad issue, Camryn and Derek speak with professors and students and investigate recent legal battles in states like Florida, Texas and Idaho, which illustrate the dangers of censorship today.