A Realistic Hope: Episode 411

In Better Angels of our Nature, Steven Pinker outlines the amazing decline in violence over the course of history. It may seem surprising, but we are living in close to the most peaceful time in human history yet.

Just a few hundred years ago, people had pastimes which we would see as horrific today, such as watching public executions, or burning cats. It was common for men to get into violent confrontations over the slightest insult, defending their honor. Today we don’t see that as honorable, but as immature.

As long as we dedicate ourselves to the values of peace and freedom, and apply our resources with care, the world is likely to improve.

Read the transcript and find important links on the site: A Beautiful Thought - A Realistic Hope: Episode 411