Humankind: A Hopeful History

Humankind is a book that argues that people are good by nature and that believing in human kindness and altruism can be a new way to think and act as the foundation for achieving true change in society.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 496 pages
Publication date: 13 May 2021
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

The International Bestseller, acclaimed by The Guardian, Daily Telegraph, New Statesman, and Daily Express as the Book of the Year, is a profound exploration of human nature that has captivated readers worldwide. Written by the acclaimed author Rutger Bregman, this thought-provoking book challenges the prevailing belief that humans are inherently selfish and driven by self-interest. Instead, Bregman presents a compelling argument that it is both realistic and revolutionary to assume that people are fundamentally good. By harboring negative thoughts and attitudes towards others, we inadvertently perpetuate a cycle of pessimism and corruption in our politics and economics.

In his monumental work, Bregman delves into a wide range of studies and events from the past 200,000 years of human history, offering a fresh perspective on our collective past. From the iconic Lord of the Flies to the devastating Blitz, from the enigmatic Siberian fox farm to the infamous New York murder, from Stanley Milgram's Yale shock machine to the Stanford prison experiment, Bregman skillfully weaves together these diverse narratives to illustrate the transformative power of believing in human kindness and altruism.

Through his meticulous research and compelling storytelling, Bregman demonstrates how embracing this new view of human nature can lead to significant positive change in our society. He challenges us to reconsider our assumptions and biases, to cultivate empathy and compassion for others, and to work towards building a more just and equitable world. Humankind offers a roadmap for achieving true social transformation, urging us to abandon the destructive tendencies of our past and embrace a more hopeful and compassionate future.

As Bregman concludes, "It is time for a new view of human nature. Let us strive to be better than we are, to believe in the best in others, and to work together to create a world that is more just, more fair, and more compassionate." This powerful book is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the complex nature of human behavior and the potential for positive change in our world.

Weight: 402g
Dimension: 129 x 198 x 34 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781408898956