In various cultures around the world, human identity cannot be separated from our nonhuman kin. The landscapes we call home — grasslands and forests, mountains and rocks, rivers and oceans — are shared by nonhuman beings who may be considered relatives. Age-old myths and modern science reinforce these kinship relationships. From forest ecology to the human microbiome, emerging research suggests that being human is a complicated journey made possible only by the good graces of our many companions.

In partnership with the Center for Humans and Nature and with support from the Kalliopeia Foundation, Wisconsin Public Radio’s To The Best Of Our Knowledge is exploring this theme of “kinship” in a special radio series. Leading scientists, philosophers and writers illuminate ways in which “personhood” transcends the human species and shows how kinship practices can deepen our care and respect for the more-than-human world.

Airs Saturday mornings at 9am during the month of April 2022.

Kinship—Part One: Eye-to-Eye Animal Encounters

Kinship—Part Two: Plants As Persons

Kinship—Part Three: When Mountains Are Gods

Kinship—Part Four: Shapeshifting