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Enlightenment Now

576 pages, 2018

Takeaways
Description

Steven Pinker urges us to look at the world in a new light. Is the world really falling apart? Is the idea of progress obsolete? Pinker shows that life, health, prosperity, safety, peace, knowledge, and happiness are on the rise and is not just in the West but worldwide.  

This progress is not the result of some cosmic force. It is a gift of the Enlightenment: the conviction that reason and science can enhance human flourishing. The Enlightenment, we now know, has worked.

Progress is Real

In Enlightenment Now, Steven Pinker shows us that progress is not just a myth. He uses data to prove that life, health, prosperity, safety, peace, knowledge, and happiness are on the rise. So, don't let the daily news get you down, things are getting better!

Reason and Science are Key

Pinker emphasizes the importance of reason and science. He believes that these two elements are the driving forces behind the progress we see today. So, if you're a fan of logic and facts, you'll find a lot to love in this book.

Enlightenment Values

The book explores the values of the Enlightenment era, such as reason, science, humanism, and progress. Pinker argues that these values are still relevant and necessary today. So, if you're interested in philosophy and history, you'll want to check this out.

Critique of Modern Pessimism

Pinker takes a look at the pessimistic views that are common in today's society and challenges them. He argues that things aren't as bad as they seem and that we should be more optimistic about the future. If you're feeling a bit down, this book might just lift your spirits.

The Power of Humanism

In Enlightenment Now, Pinker digs into the concept of humanism. He believes that prioritizing human well-being can lead to progress and improvement. If you're interested in human rights and social issues, you'll find this book enlightening.

Quotes 5

My new favorite book of all time.

Bill GatesBill Gates - Microsoft Co-founder

A magnificent book, a glorious defense of reason and science and progress, replete with a wealth of detail and embedded in a flowing narrative.

Richard DawkinsRichard Dawkins - Evolutionary Biologist

A terrific book... [Pinker] recounts the progress across a broad array of metrics, from health to wars, the environment to happiness, equal rights to quality of life.

Daniel KahnemanDaniel Kahneman - Psychologist, Economist

It's really a great book. It's very thought-provoking.

Mark ZuckerbergMark Zuckerberg - Facebook CEO

Elon MuskElon Musk - Tesla CEO
Bill GatesRichard DawkinsDaniel KahnemanMark ZuckerbergElon Musk

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