This podcast episode explores radical experiments and the intimate relationships some people have with wild animals. It discusses stories of chimpanzees, such as Barbara Smuts' encounter with a chimp over a raincoat, the adoption and experiment of raising Lucy as a human, Lucy's abilities to learn sign language, and the challenges of bridging the communication gap between humans and non-human animals. It also explores Janice Carter's journey with Lucy, from working part-time to help Lucy adapt to the wild to living in a cage with chimpanzees. The episode shares the heartbreaking story of Lucy's tragic death at the hands of poachers and highlights the concept of coexistence and the unique communication between bonobos and humans, illustrated by the experiences with Kanzi. Overall, the episode delves into the complexities, challenges, and potential connections between humans and wild animals.
