A puzzling metaphor for life

Puzzles have existed since the dawn of humankind.  And they’ve evolved and thrived in every culture around the world.  According to linguist Marcel Danesi it’s all because of our puzzle instinct.  From the first known “life or death” riddle to logic and math puzzles to jigsaws and crosswords, it’s a fascinating history.   A puzzle can challenge, vex and confound us as we attempt find an answer to it – and life.  Info on Guest:Marcel Danesi is a linguist, semiotician and professor emeritus with the Dept. of Anthropology at the University of Toronto.  He’s the author of many books including The Puzzle Instinct and An Anthropology of Puzzles.  For more info on Marcel:   https://www.anthropology.utoronto.ca/people/directories/all-faculty/marcel-danesiArticle on puzzle popularity during the pandemic:  https://medicalxpress.com/news/2020-05-chaos-jigsaw-puzzles-popular-pandemic.htmlWe appreciate your support!  Please rate our podcast.  And subscribe and follow us on social!  @CRAMideas.   Our thanks to the Temerty Foundation for their generous support. And check out our literary podcast, Passage to Wonderland.  Compelling passages from books, old and new, about discovery, insight and revelation. To give you a sense of completion at the end of your busy day.We’d really appreciate your support!  Please rate our podcast and subscribe and follow us on social @CRAMideas.  Support the CRAM Podcast!Research shapes our lives, yet so much of it doesn’t reach the public. CRAM bridges the gap, bringing groundbreaking Canadian research to everyone. To keep this important work going, we need your support.CRAM is a registered charity, and Canadian donors will receive a tax receipt. Help us share the research that matters and donate using the link below. Thank you!https://www.canadahelps.org/en/dn/124993