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The Better Angels of Our Nature
832 pages, 2012
In his gripping new book, the New York Times bestselling author of The Stuff of Thought, Enlightenment Now, and The Blank Slate explores the idea that violence has been on the decline over long stretches of history.
Exploding myths about humankind's inherent violence and the curse of modernity, this ambitious book continues Pinker's exploration of how an increasingly enlightened world may one day eradicate such evils as war and crime.
In 'The Better Angels of Our Nature', Steven Pinker presents a compelling argument that violence has been on a steady decline throughout human history. He backs this up with extensive research and data. This might seem surprising, but Pinker's evidence is hard to ignore. It's worth checking out if you're interested in understanding the evolution of human behavior.
Pinker explores the role of reason in reducing violence. He suggests that as societies have become more enlightened, they've also become more peaceful. This is a fascinating look into how our ability to reason and think critically can influence our actions and societal norms.
One of the key takeaways from 'The Better Angels of Our Nature' is the power of empathy. Pinker argues that our ability to empathize with others has played a significant role in reducing violence. This is a powerful reminder of the importance of empathy in our daily lives.
Pinker also digs into the role of government and law enforcement in maintaining peace. He suggests that the establishment of these institutions has helped curb violence by providing a system of justice and order. This is an interesting perspective to consider, especially in current discussions about the role of government in society.
Despite the decline in violence, Pinker doesn't suggest that it will disappear completely. Instead, he encourages us to continue the practices that have led to this decline. This includes promoting empathy, reason, and effective government. It's a call to action for all of us to contribute to a more peaceful future.
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The most inspiring book I've ever read.
Bill Gates - Microsoft Co-founderA supremely important book. To have command of so much research, spread across so many different fields, is a masterly achievement.
Richard Dawkins - Evolutionary Biologist
