Plague Cycle: The Unending War Between Humanity and Infectious Disease

The Plague Cycle is a sweeping history of mankind's battles with infectious disease, for readers of Yuval Hararis' Sapiens and John Barry's The Great Influenza. It reveals the relationship between civilization, globalization, prosperity, and infectious disease over the past five millennia and charts humanity's progress, providing a fascinating and timely look at the cyclical nature of infectious disease.

Format: Hardback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 01 April 2021
Publisher: Simon & Schuster

A captivating and comprehensive account of humanity's ongoing battle with infectious diseases, spanning thousands of years, is presented in The Plague Cycle. This enthralling book, written for readers who have enjoyed the #1 New York Times bestsellers Sapiens by Yuval Harari and The Great Influenza by John Barry, delves into the profound impact of infections on cities, economies, and empires throughout history.

For centuries, the size and prosperity of civilizations were intricately linked to the prevalence and severity of infections. These devastating cycles, sweeping across societies in waves, set the rhythm of civilizational growth and decline. The common response to the threat of plagues was isolation and segregation, with the sick being quarantined or excluded from society. However, a remarkable transformation has occurred over the past two centuries. Thanks to unprecedented advancements in hygiene and medical science, humanity has managed to break free from the grip of epidemic cycles, leading to an urbanized, globalized, and incredibly wealthy world.

Yet, our progress has recently become precarious. Climate and population fluctuations, as well as aspects of our prosperity, such as global trade, have left us more vulnerable to the emergence of new plagues than ever before. The stakes are high, with millions of lives and trillions of dollars at risk. In this urgent context, greater global cooperation towards sustainable health is paramount. International efforts, such as the race to develop a Covid-19 vaccine, are crucial in mitigating the impact of these diseases and safeguarding the well-being of populations worldwide.

The Plague Cycle unfolds as a vibrant historical narrative, seamlessly blending history, economics, and public health to provide a fascinating and timely exploration of the cyclical nature of infectious diseases. It sheds light on the intricate relationship between civilization, globalization, prosperity, and disease throughout the past five millennia. Through captivating storytelling and expert analysis, the book charts humanity's remarkable progress, highlighting the resilience and adaptability of our species in the face of adversity.

In conclusion, The Plague Cycle is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the profound impact of infectious diseases on human history and the urgent need for global cooperation in the fight against these diseases. By delving into the cyclical nature of infections, the book offers a valuable perspective on the complexities of our world and the challenges we face in the 21st century. As we navigate the uncertain waters of a rapidly changing global landscape, it serves as a reminder of the importance of resilience, adaptability, and solidarity in the face of adversity.

Weight: 478g
Dimension: 160 x 237 x 31 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781982165338