Serious Play - Isabel Behncke

What happens when Burner behavior goes under the microscope? Sociologists, ecologists, and economists have been on this show. Now we’re looking at this culture through a new lens: primatology.

Isabel Behncke is an evolutionary biologist and a Burning Man Project Board Member. From tracking bonobos in the jungle to observing humans on playa, she shares her groundbreaking research on ritual and play.

In this mind-expanding conversation, she and Stuart explore:

🏕️ "Dunbar's number" and how camp size matters

🐒 The evolutionary purpose of play for young and old

🤝 How risk, trust, and vulnerability build true community

🎁 The ancient, radical act of giving without expecting anything back

If you’re a social science fan, a camp lead of dynamic humans, or just a lover of wild stories about bonobos, humans, and other animals, get ready to understand your own playful nature!