Is humanity actually becoming more peaceful and prosperous than ever before?
In short: Despite modern headlines, Steven Pinker argues that human violence has plummeted since biblical times. From rising literacy rates to surging life expectancy, the data suggests a steady retreat of historical scourges. Is this progress a result of Enlightenment ideals, or are we simply overlooking the massive shifts in human well-being?
Harvard psychologist Steven Pinker disputes the notion of rising global brutality in his 2011 publication, "The Better Angels of Our Nature." He contends that, against widespread perceptions, levels of violence have fallen sharply since biblical eras. This decline is not an isolated phenomenon; Pinker suggests that other major threats to human well-being have also been in retreat, a theme he expanded upon in his later work, "Enlightenment Now." His arguments challenge the common assumption that modern society is inherently more brutal. He explores how these trends reflect a broader movement towards humanism.
The data reveals a profound shift in the human condition. Pinker notes that extreme poverty has been decimated, falling from 90 percent of the world’s population to just 10 percent. Literacy has seen a massive surge, rising from approximately 15 percent to more than 85 percent. Furthermore, global longevity has increased from about 30 years to roughly 71 years, while life expectancy in the developed world has reached about 80 years.
Pinker attributes this trajectory to the embrace of Enlightenment ideals: the use of reason, science, and knowledge to enhance human flourishing. Central to this progress is the moral commitment to humanism, which prioritizes the well-being of people over tribalism. This stands in opposition to older, often more emotionally appealing impulses, such as seeking the greatness of one's own tribe, race, or faith, or pursuing martial conquest for historical glory. This shift requires overcoming the instinct to focus exclusively on one's immediate circle. Such tribalism often competes with the altruistic goal of universal well-being.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Steven Pinker: The Better Angels of our Nature
- Also: Harvard’s Pinker makes case for human progress in new book — Harvard Gazette
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