The Collapse Hypothesis

Most post-apocalyptic stories assume the same thing: when society collapses, humans become violent strangers fighting over the last scraps of civilization.

But what if that assumption is wrong?

In this episode of End of a Species, Jeff and guests explore what we’re calling The Collapse Hypothesis—the idea that apocalypse fiction may misunderstand human nature. Inspired by recent episodes of Paradise, where survivor groups repeatedly help strangers instead of attacking them, the conversation asks a deeper question:

What actually happens to human behavior when the rules of society disappear?

Along the way, the panel discusses disaster psychology, mutual aid, and the jobs that suddenly become powerful when civilization breaks down.

⚠️ Spoiler note: Light discussion of Paradise Season 2.