#13831
Mentioned in 2 episodes
Plagues and Peoples
Book • 1976
In 'Plagues and Peoples', William H. McNeill examines the historical context of the spread and effects of various diseases, such as smallpox, the bubonic plague, and typhoid.
He argues that two forces, micro-parasitism (the influence of diseases through bacilli and viruses on humans) and macro-parasitism (the spread of disease through human activities like military campaigns, colonialism, and trade), have significantly shaped world history.
The book covers the evolution of disease environments from early human societies to the AIDS epidemic, highlighting how ecological changes, trade networks, and human expansion have influenced the spread of diseases.
McNeill's work challenges traditional views of history by emphasizing the crucial role of disease in shaping human populations, cultures, and societies.
He argues that two forces, micro-parasitism (the influence of diseases through bacilli and viruses on humans) and macro-parasitism (the spread of disease through human activities like military campaigns, colonialism, and trade), have significantly shaped world history.
The book covers the evolution of disease environments from early human societies to the AIDS epidemic, highlighting how ecological changes, trade networks, and human expansion have influenced the spread of diseases.
McNeill's work challenges traditional views of history by emphasizing the crucial role of disease in shaping human populations, cultures, and societies.
Mentioned by
Mentioned in 2 episodes
Mentioned by Rudyard Lynch to highlight his point about diseases in Africa and their impact on population density.
47 snips
Explaining African Colonialism
Recommended by 
Paul Krugman as one of three books that changed his life, highlighting its broad perspective on history.
Paul Krugman as one of three books that changed his life, highlighting its broad perspective on history.
ICYMI: Paul Krugman
Recommended by Paul Krugman as a book that influenced him, focusing on the impact of plagues on history.
Paul Krugman as a book that influenced him, focusing on the impact of plagues on history. Paul Krugman on climate, robots, single-payer, and so much more
