Plagues upon the Earth: Disease and the Course of Human History

Plagues upon the Earth is a sweeping history of humans and their germs, weaving together a grand narrative of global history with insights from cutting-edge genetics. It shows that the story of disease is entangled with the history of slavery, colonialism, and capitalism, and reveals the enduring effects of historical plagues in patterns of wealth, health, power, and inequality. It also traces the role of disease in the transition to farming, the spread of cities, the advance of transportation, and the increase in human population. The book offers a new interpretation of humanity's path to control over infectious disease, where rising evolutionary threats constantly push back against human progress and the devastating effects of modernization contribute to the great divergence between societies.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 704 pages
Publication date: 25 April 2023
Publisher: Princeton University Press

A sweeping examination of history from human origins to global pandemics, Plagues upon the Earth delves into the intricate relationship between humans and germs. Written by Kyle Harper, this monumental work combines insights from cutting-edge genetics with a comprehensive narrative of global history, shedding light on why humanity's disease pool is uniquely dangerous and why it continues to grow rapidly due to technological advancements. Harper explores the deep roots of disease in our evolutionary past, revealing how it has been intertwined with the history of slavery, colonialism, and capitalism. He also uncovers the lasting impacts of historical plagues on patterns of wealth, health, power, and inequality.

In addition to tracing the historical trajectory of disease, Plagues upon the Earth offers a unique perspective on humanity's escape from infectious disease. This triumph, while enabling the existence of life as we know it, has also had destabilizing effects on the environment, leading to the emergence of new diseases. The book provides a panoramic view of the role of disease in various historical transitions, such as the shift to farming, the spread of cities, the development of transportation, and the exponential growth of human population. Harper presents a fresh interpretation of humanity's journey toward controlling infectious disease, highlighting the constant challenges posed by rising evolutionary threats and the detrimental effects of modernization on societies.

Plagues upon the Earth emphasizes the global interconnectedness of human health and the well-being of the planet. It serves as a reminder that our actions and choices have profound consequences for both ourselves and the environment. By placing the COVID-19 pandemic in context, the book offers valuable insights into our species' past and provides a roadmap for navigating the future. It prompts us to reflect on our collective responsibility to protect the health of both humans and the planet and to work towards a more sustainable and equitable world.

In conclusion, Plagues upon the Earth is a groundbreaking work that offers a comprehensive and insightful examination of the history and impact of disease on humanity. Through its multidisciplinary approach, Harper provides a deeper understanding of the complex relationship between humans and germs, shedding light on the origins, consequences, and potential solutions to global pandemics. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in history, biology, and the future of our planet.

Dimension: 235 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780691230597