Chapter 1:what is The Better Angels Of Our Nature book about"The Better Angels of Our Nature" is a book written by cognitive scientist Steven Pinker, published in 2011. In this book, Pinker explores the decline of violence throughout human history, presenting evidence and analysis to support his claims.The central argument of the book is that, despite popular belief, violence has decreased significantly throughout various historical periods. Pinker analyzes data from various domains such as war, genocide, crime, and interpersonal violence to provide statistical trends and patterns. He argues that societal progress, the expansion of reason, the development of institutions, and the spread of empathy and morality have all contributed to this decline in violence.Furthermore, Pinker identifies several psychological and social factors that have played a crucial role in promoting nonviolence. These factors include the rise of the nation-state, the growth of commerce and trade, the influence of human rights movements, the development of literacy and education, and the impact of globalization.Pinker uses a multidisciplinary approach, drawing on historical records, archaeological findings, psychology experiments, and statistical analyses to support his thesis. He challenges common assumptions, such as the perception that the world has become more violent due to the media's attention on violent events. By presenting a comprehensive and data-driven analysis, Pinker aims to debunk violent pessimism and provide a more accurate understanding of human progress."The Better Angels of Our Nature" offers a comprehensive view of humanity's changing relationship with violence and serves as a counterpoint to prevailing notions of a violent and dangerous world.Chapter 2:Author of The Better Angels Of Our Nature bookSteven Pinker is a renowned cognitive scientist, linguist, and popular science author. He was born on September 18, 1954, in Montreal, Canada. Pinker has made significant contributions to our understanding of human cognition, language acquisition, and evolution through his groundbreaking research.Pinker received his Bachelor's degree in experimental psychology from McGill University in 1976 and went on to earn a Ph.D. in experimental psychology from Harvard University in 1979. He has been a professor at several prestigious institutions, including the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and Harvard University, where he currently holds the position of Johnstone Family Professor of Psychology.Apart from his distinguished academic career, Pinker is widely known for his engaging and accessible writing style. He has authored numerous influential books, including "The Language Instinct," "How the Mind Works," "The Blank Slate," and "Enlightenment Now." However, one of his most celebrated works is "The Better Angels of Our Nature: Why Violence Has Declined," published in 2011."The Better Angels of Our Nature" offers a groundbreaking perspective on the decline of violence throughout human history. Pinker presents an array of empirical evidence that challenges the belief that the world has become increasingly violent over time. Instead, he argues that humanity has seen a remarkable decrease in violence, both in terms of interpersonal violence and large-scale conflicts.Pinker's work in "The Better Angels of Our Nature" delves into historical trends, psychological factors, and cultural shifts that have contributed to this decline in violence. He explores various ideas, such as the development of empathy, the expansion of moral circles, the impact of humanitarian ideals, and the role of institutions in maintaining peace.Both critically acclaimed and widely debated, Pinker's "The Better Angels of Our Nature" has made a significant impact on public discourse and our understanding of humanity's capacity for violence and peace. Through his research and writing, Pinker continues to be a thought-provoking and influential figure in the field of cognitive science and social analysis.Chapter 3:why is The Better Angels Of Our Nature book worth readingBroadens perspective: The book provides a comprehensive analysis of human violence throughout history. Pinker outlines the decline in violence over millennia and challenges the widespread notion that the world is becoming increasingly more violent. This perspective offers a fresh and optimistic take on human civilization.Well-researched and evidence-based: Pinker's work is extensively researched, drawing from a wide range of fields such as archaeology, history, psychology, sociology, and neuroscience. The book presents a rich collection of data, case studies, and statistical analyses to support its claims.Engaging writing style: Pinker's writing is accessible to a general audience, making complex ideas and research accessible and enjoyable. The book is organized into digestible chapters that interweave personal stories, historical anecdotes, and scientific evidence, creating an engaging narrative.Challenges prevailing beliefs: "The Better Angels of Our Nature" challenges common misconceptions about human nature and violence. Pinker argues that understanding the decline in violence is crucial for developing effective strategies to address ongoing issues, such as war, crime, and terrorism.Inspires hope for the future: Despite addressing dark and distressing topics, Pinker's overall message is one of hope. By examining historical trends and the factors that contribute to the decline in violence, the book offers insights into how humanity can further reduce violence and create a more peaceful world.Societal implications: Reading Pinker's book can have profound societal implications. By challenging prevailing beliefs about violence, it encourages readers to question their assumptions and promote a more nuanced understanding of human nature. This can contribute to fostering empathy, tolerance, and a more peaceful coexistence.Overall, "The Better Angels of Our Nature" is worth reading because it presents a wealth of research, challenges conventional wisdom, and offers a hopeful perspective on human nature and the potential for a less violent world.Chapter 4: Books like The Better Angels Of Our Nature book"The Humanitarian Genius of Jessica Savitch: How a Local Television News Anchor Changed the World" by Clay McLeod Chapman"The Moral Arc: How Science and Reason Lead Humanity toward Truth, Justice, and Freedom" by Michael Shermer"Enlightenment Now: The Case for Reason, Science, Humanism, and Progress" by Steven Pinker"The Rational Optimist: How Prosperity Evolves" by Matt Ridley"Factfulness: Ten Reasons We're Wrong About the World – and Why Things Are Better Than You Think" by Hans Rosling"The Empathy Instinct: How to Create a More Civil Society" by Peter Bazalgette"The End of War: How Waging Peace Can Save Humanity, Our Planet, and Our Future" by David Swanson"The Rational Animal: How Evolution Made Us Smarter Than We Think" by Douglas T. Kenrick and Vladas Griskevicius"The Better Nature of Our Angels: Why Violence Has Declined" by James A. Haught"The Knowledge Illusion: Why We Never Think Alone" by Steven Sloman and Philip Fernbach

Ver todos los episodios