Naruhodo Entrevista #78: Francisco Dyonísio Cardoso Mendes
Summary
In this episode of "Naruhodo," host Dida, an ethologist and professor at UnB, shares his journey from a curious child in São Paulo to a primatologist. He recounts moving to the US at 16, studying anthropology at San Diego State, and returning to Brazil to study muriquis in Minas Gerais. Dida discusses the complex social hierarchies, cooperation, and unique pacifism of these primates, highlighting how his research challenges misconceptions about animal behavior.
Topics discussed
Overview of the four branches of anthropology
Primate dominance hierarchies and social behavior
Sponsorship and support for the Naruhodô podcast
Introduction to guest Francisco Dionísio Cardoso Mendes
Reflections on the challenges of science in Brazil
Early life and childhood interest in animals
Family background, football, and early academic influences
Decision to study abroad and initial opportunities
High school in the US and football scholarship
Life in Salt Lake City and transition to higher education
Choosing anthropology over zoology for comparative behavior
Arrival at University of San Diego and cultural adjustment
Differences between US and Brazilian undergraduate education
Research opportunities and competitiveness in the US
Developing a passion for primatology and primate behavior
History of primatology in Brazil and key pioneers
Return to Brazil and specialization in Caratinga
Meeting Karen Strayer and starting fieldwork on muriquis
Field training and identifying individual muriquis
Complex social structures and individual personalities in primates
Dominance, female choice, and kinship in muriqui groups
Long-term research methodology and endogamy questions
Master's thesis focus and collaboration with César Ades
Studying dominance hierarchies and formal negotiation
Vocal communication and turn-taking in muriquis
Sandwich program in Wisconsin and bioacoustics development
Challenges of keeping muriquis in captivity
Post-doctoral work in Sorbonne and vocal exchange patterns
Transition to teaching and interdisciplinary approaches
Current student research and cultural comparisons
Research on urban macaques and human interaction
The Bichos Vivos project and field trips for students
Future directions and applications of primatology
Value of basic science and public engagement
Closing remarks and gratitude to the guest
Final thoughts on ethology and scientific dissemination
Outro and call to action for listeners
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