This episode explores various aspects of whistling in different cultural and historical contexts. It delves into Chinese transcendental whistling, which combines meditation and insight into the energy of the world, as well as the traditions and folklore surrounding whistling in Chinese culture. The episode also discusses the significance of whistling in the Roman mystery cult of Mithraism and its association with freedom of expression and defiance of authority in Chinese history. Additionally, it explores the folklore and mythology surrounding monsters that whistle and the psychological and medical aspects of compulsive whistling behavior. The chapter highlights the potential dangers and psychological impact of certain types of whistling and the magical beliefs and superstitions associated with it. It also touches on the historical and cultural significance of the "stranger who whistles" trope in cinema and folklore. The episode concludes with discussions on the psychological research and theories surrounding whistling and the distinctions between impulsivity and compulsivity from a neurological perspective. Overall, this episode provides a comprehensive exploration of whistling in its various forms and its cultural, historical, and psychological significance.
Anti-commonsence
1. The belief in the magical power of whistling and its potential danger and unknown consequences.
2. The association of whistling with untrammeled individual freedom and defiance of authority in Chinese history.
3. The magical beliefs and superstitions surrounding whistling, such as the belief that whistling can summon demons and cause damage to crops.
4. The psychological and medical aspects of compulsive whistling and the treatment using a tricyclic antidepressant.
5. The distinction between impulsivity and compulsivity in neurological damage and the need for further research in understanding whistling behavior.
