#482

Mentioned in 36 episodes

Humankind

A Hopeful History

Book • 2019

Humankind: A Hopeful History challenges the idea that humans are inherently selfish by presenting evidence of our altruistic behavior throughout history.

The book takes a multi-disciplinary approach, drawing from history, economics, psychology, biology, anthropology, and archaeology to argue that humans are more peaceful and friendly than commonly believed.

Bregman sides with Jean-Jacques Rousseau's view of human nature in the state of nature debate, opposing Thomas Hobbes' more pessimistic outlook.

He also discusses the concept of 'domestication syndrome' and how humans may have self-domesticated, leading to a more cooperative and empathetic species.

Mentioned by

Richard Schwartz

Chris Williamson

David McWilliams

Mentioned in 36 episodes

Mentioned by

Kevin Kelly

as a book that changed his mind about human nature.

Kevin Kelly - Be Generous and Unique - [Invest Like the Best, EP.334]

Recommended by

Ryan Holiday

as interesting books written by

Rutger Bregman

.

You’re Not Wasting Time, You’re Wasting Your Life | Rutger Bregman (PT. 2)

Mentioned by

David Marchese

as the author of several books arguing that the world is better than we think and that positive change is possible.

'The Interview': Rutger Bregman Wants to Save Elites From Their Wasted Lives

Mentioned by

Sam Harris

as one of

Rutger Bregman

's books.

#412 — Better Things & Better People

Mentioned by

Scott Galloway

as the subject of the podcast episode, discussing his research on human nature and universal basic income.

Conversation with Rutger Bregman — Human Nature, Power Dynamics, and UBI

Recommended by

Richard Schwartz

for its data showing that humans have a good essence and that we've been laboring under a misconception about what people are really like.

How To Handle Your Demons | Richard Schwartz

Mentioned by

Chris Williamson

in relation to the concept of 'puppification' of humans.

#580 - Dr Tania Reynolds - What Use Are Female Friendships?

Mentioned by Valina Peneva as a book with the premise that humans are innately kind.

Swiss Re's Velina Peneva on the Business of Reinsurance

Mentioned by

Rufus Griscom

as a colossal bestseller that rehabilitated faith in human nature.

MORAL AMBITION: Are You Wasting Your Talent?

Mentioned by

Rutger Bregman

as his book.

When Things Fall Apart

Mentioned by

Rutger Bregman

as his book.

When Things Fall Apart (Throwback)

Mentioned by

Sam Harris

as one of

Rutger Bregman

's books, alongside Moral Ambition and Utopia for Realists.

#412 - Better Things & Better People

Mentioned by

David McWilliams

as the book for their February 24th book club meeting.

DeepSeek, Deep State or Deep Pockets? Karen Hao on China’s AI Power Play

Mentioned by

David McWilliams

as the book for their book club.

From Fartcoin to Trumpcoin: How Memes and Tokens Are Redefining Power and Wealth

Mentioned by

David McWilliams

as the book the podcast's book club is reading.

Trump, Tariffs & the Gold Rush: The McKinley Playbook

Mentioned by

David Allen

as a favorite book that challenges the sensational media's portrayal of the world.

Ep. 231: Year End Reviews

Mentioned by

David McWilliams

as the book for their February 24th book club.

Hard Liquor, Soft Power: The Death of Proportionality

Mentioned by Rutger Bregman as his previous book, aiming to restore faith in humanity.

Trump on Upholding Constitution: "I Don't Know" | Historian Rutger Bregman

Mentioned by

Jamil Zaki

as being in conversation across books about the myth that people are bad at heart.

HOPE FOR CYNICS: The Surprising Science of Human Goodness

Mentioned by

Jamie Bristow

in the discussion of compassion training and its importance for societal well-being.

Becoming Spiritual Warriors: exploring a politics of radical Compassion with Jamie Bristow

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