Description

‘Deftly punctures popular misconceptions… Could a history book be more timely?’ The Economist
‘Engaging and persuasive’ New Statesman
‘A compelling and timely study of what drove history’s most influential civilisations… the book comes with impeccable timing… An entertaining and informative read for anyone interested in the forces that shape how civilisations progress’ Financial Times

Golden ages are marked by periods of spectacular cultural flourishing, scientific exploration, technological achievement and economic growth: Ancient Greece gave us democracy and the rule of the law; out of Abbasid Baghdad came algebra and modern medicine, and the Dutch Republic furnished us with Europe’s greatest artistic movements. As such, each has unique lessons to teach us about the world we live in today. But, all previous golden ages have proven finite, whether through external pressures or internal fracturing.

In Peak Human, acclaimed historian Johan Norberg examines seven of humanity’s greatest civilizations – ancient Athens, the Roman Republic, Abbasid Baghdad, Song China, Renaissance Italy, the Dutch Republic and the Anglosphere – and asks: how do we ensure that our current golden age doesn’t end?

Publisher Review

Clear, colourful and convincing, marshalling evidence from a range of eras and civilisations… The author is often amusing as well as illuminating. * The Economist on OPEN * Johan Norberg’s superb book demonstrates, with hundreds of examples, how openness has been the key to the success of our species over 10,000 years and is the secret of prosperity and peace today. * Matt Ridley on OPEN * No person or society is smart enough or wise enough or noble enough to solve the wicked problems of life by themselves. With clarity and grace, Johan Norberg reminds us that openness to things and ideas from others is the only route to well-being. * Steven Pinker on OPEN * An excellent explanation of why capitalism is not just successful, but morally right * Elon Musk on THE CAPITALIST MANIFESTO *