Jon Turk returns to Salish Wolf for another episode, this one on his new book Tracking Lions, Myth and Wilderness in Samburu. In this discussion, and in his book, Jon demonstrates how myth has shaped humanity, catalyzing the formation of tribes, creating power dynamics, and eroding the concepts of unity.
Today, the world over, humans are immersed in myth-based societies where narratives are sparked by both well-intentioned and perverse igniters, fueled by our digitally-connected global ecosystem, and often fanned by fear.
While on a lion tracking expedition in Kenya, Jon experienced firsthand the power of tribal lore and the wild narratives that we run through our heads. While literally on the trail of a nearby lion and armed only with a wooden club, Jon filled first with anger, then surrender, and finally peace.
We explore many topics in this conversation, including the imminent danger Jon was constantly in due to warring tribes and corrupt officials, cultural myths that have shaped history, and the dividing factions of present-day narratives related to topics such as climate change and covid.
Although myth has historically caused great division, including religious wars and ‘us against them’ attitudes, Jon and I demonstrate that two people do not have to share the same beliefs to have mutual respect and an admiration for that which connects us. Healthy debate has been the source of great transformation and intellectual advancement, yet today we run the risk of possibly irreparable divisions as cancel culture eliminates even the most basic human decencies. Yet there is another way forward, and love is at the heart of it.
Please enjoy this episode of Salish Wolf with Jon Turk.
Episode Links:
Tracking Lions, Myth, and Wilderness in Samburu by Jon Turk
Anchor Point Links:
Men’s Retreats at Anchor Point Expeditions
Men’s Group at Anchor Point Expeditions