The Better Angels of Our Nature - Summary and Key Ideas

The book The Better Angels of Our Nature (2011) is about the decline of violence in human history. Steven Pinker provides evidence that despite the current state of the world, violence has drastically decreased over centuries, and there is hope for a more peaceful future.

This book is a perfect read for individuals that are interested in the history and psychology of violence and want to understand the decline of violence over time through empirical evidence and analysis. It is also suitable for those who enjoy challenging their assumptions and exploring controversial ideas.

Buy the book
The Better Angels of Our Nature

Key ideas

01

Violence Declined Throughout Human History

02

Evolution of Human Empathy and SelfControl

Play in App
03

Role of Government in Reducing Violence

Play in App
04

Impact of Commerce on Peaceful Societies

Play in App
05

Feminization and Decreased Violence

Play in App
06

Expanding Circle of Moral Consideration

Play in App
07

Power of Reason in Overcoming Violence

Play in App
08

Play in App
09

Play in App
10

Play in App
11

Play in App
12

Play in App
Get the App
Access all 8 key ideas for free!

Summary & Review

In "The Better Angels of Our Nature", Steven Pinker reveals the decline of violence throughout human history and provides insights into the reasons behind this trend. By analyzing data from various sources, he proves that we live in the most peaceful era of human history. This book is an eye-opener and a call to action for all of us. Here are ten actions we can take to implement the learnings from the book into our own lives.

Steven Pinker

Steven Pinker is a renowned cognitive scientist, linguist, and author who has made significant contributions to the study of language, human nature, and the mind. He is a professor of psychology at Harvard University and has been named one of Time Magazine's 100 most influential people in the world. Pinker is also a frequent contributor to publications such as The New York Times, The Guardian, and The Atlantic, where he writes about a range of topics including psychology, politics, and culture. He is known for his clear and accessible writing style, as well as his commitment to evidence-based reasoning and scientific inquiry.

advertisement

Is Your Domain Name at Risk?

90% of domains are vulnerable to email fraud and spoofing. Cybercriminals can send emails as you, even if you don't. DMARC stops this.

Check DMARC Now
check is instant and free

Find all the book summaries

Quality book summaries

The Power of Self-Dependence

This book explores our dependencies in family and society, highlighting their various forms, and explaining how it is possible to take control of one's own life in a self-determined and responsible way. It emphasizes the importance of making conscious choices and taking responsibility for our own decisions.

Maps of Meaning

"Maps of Meaning" is a book by Jordan Peterson that explores the relationship between belief systems, mythology, and the human perception of the world, aiming to explain how our minds form meaning from chaos.

Das glückliche Gehirn

"Das glückliche Gehirn" ist ein Selbsthilfebuch, das einen umfassenden Überblick über verschiedene Störungen bietet und erläutert, wie das Gehirn für eine bessere Gesundheit optimiert werden kann. Es basiert auf der klinischen Erfahrung des Autors in der Diagnose, Behandlung und Verbesserung der Gehirnfunktion. Das Buch präsentiert eine fortschrittliche Methode zur Behandlung emotionaler Probleme wie Angst, Depression und bipolare Störung. Der Autor stellt zudem einige überzeugende Fallstudien zur Gehirngesundheit vor.

The Good Life

‘The Good Life‘ is a deep dive into the 83-year long Harvard Study of Adult Development - one of humanity's longest studies on happiness. It provides insights into the lives of the participants and reveals previously underlying concepts of what makes a good life.

The Experience Machine

The Experience Machine is a book that explores the concept of the human brain as a prediction machine, examining how our minds predict and shape our reality. It delves into the impact of these predictions on our experiences, emotions, and actions, and discusses potential ways to manipulate or "hack" our predictive minds.

ADHD 2.0

ADHD 2.0 offers new insights and practical strategies based on cutting-edge research to help individuals thrive with ADHD. This book provides readers with the tools they need to manage ADHD effectively from childhood through adulthood.