Cannibalism: A Perfectly Natural History by Bill Schutt Summary

1. Cannibalism occurs naturally across 1,500+ animal species for survival and evolutionary benefits.
2. Ritual human cannibalism existed globally as cultural practice before being villainized by colonialism.
3. Medicinal cannibalism involved European royalty consuming human remains for health benefits until the 18th century.
4. Survival cannibalism accounts for less than 1% of documented human cases despite pop culture depictions.
5. Sexual cannibalism in spiders and insects increases reproductive success through nutrient transfer.
6. Transmissible spongiform encephalopathies like Kuru reveal biological risks of consuming neural tissue.
7. Columbus exaggerated New World cannibalism narratives to justify colonial exploitation.
8. Bill Schutt debunks the Donner Party myth using forensic archaeology of cannibalism claims.
9. The cannibalism taboo stems from disease risks and social control rather than inherent immorality.

About the Author of Cannibalism

Bill Schutt, vertebrate zoologist and bestselling author of Cannibalism: A Perfectly Natural History, blends scientific rigor with engaging storytelling to demystify taboo biological phenomena. A research associate at the American Museum of Natural History and emeritus professor of biology at LIU Post, Schutt’s expertise in extreme animal behaviors—from blood-feeding bats to ecological survival strategies—fuels his exploration of cannibalism’s evolutionary role across species.

His work has been featured in The New York Times, Discover, and The Economist, cementing his reputation as a translator of complex science for mainstream audiences.

Schutt’s other notable works include Pump: A Natural History of the Heart and Dark Banquet: Blood and the Curious Lives of Blood-Feeding Creatures, both lauded for merging meticulous research with accessible prose. His latest book, Bite: An Incisive History of Teeth, earned a starred review from Kirkus and a New York Times rave. Cannibalism—a New York Times Editor’s Choice and Amazon “Best Book of the Year”—has been translated into multiple languages, amplifying its reach as a definitive guide to one of nature’s most misunderstood practices.

FAQs About Cannibalism

What is Cannibalism: A Perfectly Natural History about?

Cannibalism: A Perfectly Natural History by zoologist Bill Schutt explores cannibalism across species, dispelling myths and examining its biological, social, and historical roles. Schutt analyzes animal behaviors—like tadpoles eating siblings—and human cases, including survival cannibalism (e.g., the Donner Party) and ritual practices (e.g., Christian Eucharist). The book blends science, humor, and anthropology to challenge taboos, arguing cannibalism is a natural survival strategy.

Who should read Cannibalism: A Perfectly Natural History?

This book suits science enthusiasts, history buffs, and readers intrigued by taboo topics. Its accessible style appeals to those interested in evolutionary biology, anthropology, or dark humor. Schutt’s mix of rigorous research and witty storytelling makes it ideal for fans of Mary Roach or fans of morbid curiosities.

Is Cannibalism: A Perfectly Natural History worth reading?

Yes—Schutt’s thorough research and engaging narrative make it a standout. The book balances scientific rigor with gripping anecdotes, from shark embryos consuming siblings to medieval European medicinal cannibalism. It’s praised for reframing cannibalism as a biologically normal behavior rather than a grotesque aberration.

What animals practice cannibalism in the book?

Schutt highlights cannibalistic species like tadpoles (eating siblings to reduce competition), sand tiger sharks (embryos consuming each other in utero), and polar bears (eating cubs during food shortages). Overcrowding and stress often trigger these behaviors, revealing cannibalism’s role in population control and survival.

Does the book discuss human cannibalism?

Yes—Schutt examines human cannibalism in contexts like survival (Donner Party), ritual (Christian Eucharist), and medicine (European use of human body parts as curatives). He debunks exaggerated historical accounts (e.g., Columbus’s depictions) while highlighting verified cases, such as the 1941 siege of Leningrad.

What are the criticisms of Cannibalism: A Perfectly Natural History?

Some critics note the book’s anecdotal focus over deep analysis, particularly in human cases. However, Schutt’s goal is to normalize cannibalism biologically, not justify it ethically. The balance between humor and science may polarize readers seeking a strictly academic tone.

What are the key themes in Cannibalism: A Perfectly Natural History?

Key themes include cannibalism as a biological imperative (driven by starvation or overcrowding), its role in social hierarchies (e.g., black widow spiders), and how cultural taboos distort its prevalence. Schutt emphasizes that cannibalism is neither rare nor inherently aberrant in nature.

What surprising facts does the book reveal?

Schutt uncovers lesser-known practices, like 18th-century Europeans consuming human placenta as medicine and Chinese “corpse medicine” made from mummies. He also links Neanderthal extinction theories to cannibalism and details how climate change might increase cannibalistic behaviors in species.

How does Cannibalism compare to other books on the topic?

Unlike sensationalized accounts, Schutt’s work uses zoological and historical evidence to normalize cannibalism. It’s closer to Mary Roach’s Stiff in tone, blending humor with science, but stands out for its cross-species analysis and debunking of colonial-era myths.

Who is Bill Schutt, the author?

Bill Schutt is a zoologist, biology professor, and research associate at the American Museum of Natural History. His expertise in comparative anatomy and dark biological phenomena informs the book’s scientific credibility. He’s also authored Dark Banquet, exploring blood-feeding creatures.

What famous cannibalism cases are covered?

The book analyzes infamous cases like the Donner Party (debunking myths about mass human consumption) and the 1941 Leningrad siege. Schutt also explores ritual cannibalism in Aztec culture and medicinal cannibalism in Renaissance Europe.

Why is Cannibalism relevant today?

Schutt ties cannibalism to modern issues like climate change-induced resource scarcity, suggesting it may resurge in overcrowded or famine-stricken human populations. The book also critiques how “cannibal” labels have historically justified colonialism and dehumanization.