Reading Library · Human Nature Tier 2: Supporting Reading

Enlightenment Now: The Case for Reason, Science, Humanism, and Progress

by Steven Pinker (2018)

★★★★ 4/5

A data-rich argument that the world is improving by most measures

"Progress is not the same as perfectionism."

— Steven Pinker

My Review

Pinker's data-driven case for progress provides essential context for understanding long-term trends. Despite daily news, most measures of human wellbeing have improved dramatically - important for avoiding negativity bias in strategy.

Why It Matters

Strategic pessimism must be balanced with recognition of long-term progress. Understanding trends prevents overreaction to short-term noise.

Key Ideas

  • By most measures, the world is better than ever
  • Progress is real but not automatic
  • Reason and science drive improvement
  • Negativity bias distorts our perception

How It Connects to This Framework

Environmental sensing and signal-versus-noise throughout the framework.

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