summary ofHumankindBook by Rutger Bregman

first KEY POINT

The good side of human nature is underrated

Human beings have a bad reputation. We’re known for our jealousy, pride, anger, spite, and very rarely — for our kindness and empathy. However, there are countless examples throughout history of human kindness making the key difference in a situation.Rutger Bregman dares to suggest that maybe humans aren’t that bad after all, and perhaps the reason we’ve managed to survive catastrophe after catastrophe on planet Earth is down to our ability to care for others, show empathy, and create strong bonds. This is an idea that many people push aside, but Bregman suggests that, by embracing it, we could create a better society for everyone in the future.

During major catastrophes, there is a tendency to assume that humans panic and think of themselves first, but it’s often not the case. Bregman mentions the horrors in New York on September 11th. People were terrified, but they weren’t pushing each other out of the way. They were actually helping others, giving up their place to allow slower and more vulnerable ones to go first.It’s normal to panic, but countless times throughout history, humans have shown an ability to hold back that initial panic and show their better side. It’s very easy to assume that human nature is about greed and selfishness but looking towards the positive side of the scale is always a better option. When you do this, it encourages you to be more empathetic and understanding toward others.