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Blueprint
544 pages, 2020
In his book Blueprint, Nicholas A. Christakis offers a compelling defense of the idea that our genes affect not only our bodies and behaviors but also the ways in which we make societies, ones that are surprisingly similar worldwide.
Offering numerous vivid examples, including diverse historical and contemporary cultures, communities formed in the wake of shipwrecks, commune dwellers seeking utopia, online groups thrown together by design or involving artificially intelligent bots, and even the tender and complex social arrangements of elephants and dolphins that so resemble our own, Christakis argues that we humans use our natural behaviors to build humane societies.
In Blueprint, Nicholas A. Christakis explores the idea that our social behaviors are not just influenced by our genes, but are actually a part of our genetic makeup. He suggests that our ability to form meaningful relationships and societies is hardwired into our DNA.
Christakis digs into the power and influence of social networks. He argues that these networks are not just a modern phenomenon, but a fundamental part of human nature. They shape our lives in ways we often don't realize, from our health and happiness to our political beliefs.
The book explores the evolutionary roots of cooperation and altruism. Christakis suggests that these traits have been selected for because they benefit the group as a whole, not just the individual. This challenges the traditional view of evolution as a purely selfish process.
Christakis researches the impact of social interactions on our health. He finds that our social networks can influence everything from our weight to our mental health. This highlights the importance of nurturing positive relationships and social connections.
In Blueprint, you'll see how culture plays a crucial role in shaping society. Christakis argues that while our genetic blueprint shapes our social behaviors, it's our shared culture that determines how these behaviors are expressed. This interplay between nature and nurture is a key theme of the book.
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Blueprint is an extraordinarily wide-ranging and thought-provoking book, which challenges us to see ourselves and our behavior in an entirely new light.
Steven Pinker - Cognitive PsychologistBlueprint is a game-changer. It's a powerful exploration of the genetic roots of society and a must-read for anyone interested in our future.
Robert Sapolsky - Neuroendocrinology ResearcherBlueprint is a fascinating and provocative new way of thinking about our genes and how they shape our lives. It's a must-read for anyone interested in genetics and the future of medicine.
Anne Wojcicki - 23andMe Co-FounderBlueprint is a tour de force that redefines the conversation on nature versus nurture. It's a book that will change the way you think about genes, behavior, and the human condition.
Daniel Gilbert - Social PsychologistBlueprint is a groundbreaking exploration of the deep origins of human behavior. It's a book that will change the way you think about society, culture, and what it means to be human.
David Brooks - Political Commentator
