Enlightenment Now by Steven Pinker

Summary

'Enlightenment Now' by Steven Pinker is an optimistic defense of reason, science, humanism, and progress. Pinker marshals an impressive array of data to argue that despite contemporary pessimism, the world is improving by nearly every measure of human well-being. The book explores historical trends in health, safety, wealth, and happiness and credits Enlightenment values for these advances. Pinker also addresses common criticisms and clarifies misconceptions about progress. He urges readers to embrace rationality and evidence-based thinking to solve future global challenges.

Life-Changing Lessons

1. Progress is real and measurable, despite perceptions of decline: Pinker shows that violence, poverty, and disease have decreased worldwide over time through reason and science.

2. Enlightenment values like reason, science, and humanism empower societies to flourish. Societies that embrace these principles consistently achieve more well-being for their citizens.

3. Pessimism is often the result of cognitive biases and sensational media; a fact-based outlook reveals opportunities for further improvement rather than despair.

Publishing year and rating

The book was published in: 2018

AI Rating (from 0 to 100): 93

Practical Examples

1. Decline in Extreme Poverty

   Pinker presents data showing that extreme poverty has dramatically decreased in the last few decades. In 1820, about 90% of the world lived in extreme poverty, but by 2015, it was less than 10%. He credits economic growth, international cooperation, and scientific advancement for this dramatic shift.

2. Increase in Life Expectancy

   The book highlights medical and scientific innovations that have contributed to rising life expectancy globally. Pinker notes that improvements in public health, nutrition, and disease control have added decades to average lifespans, even in some of the poorest countries.

3. Reduction in Violence

   Pinker examines historical trends indicating a decline in various forms of violence, including homicide, war, and domestic violence. He attributes this decline to better governance, rule of law, and the spread of humanitarian values.

4. Rise in Human Rights and Democracy

   The book chronicles the global increase in political rights and civil liberties over the centuries. Pinker argues that rational debate, legal reforms, and international pressure have fostered more inclusive societies and expanded individual freedoms.

5. Environmental Improvements in Rich Countries

   Pinker provides evidence that as societies become wealthier and adopt more efficient technologies, many environmental indicators (such as air and water pollution) improve. He acknowledges ongoing challenges but stresses that problem-solving rooted in science and policy can lead to further advances.

6. Improvements in Education

   He details the rapid expansion of educational access and literacy worldwide. Increased education levels, especially among women, are shown to correlate with better health, economic growth, and lower birth rates.

7. Access to Information and Knowledge

   Pinker discusses how developments like the Internet and mobile technology have given billions unprecedented access to knowledge. He underscores this as a key driver for empowerment, innovation, and social change.