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Summary of Humankind 

4.6 . 6318 reviews

Short summary

We’re all quick to label humans as selfish, cruel, destructive, and jealous, but have you ever stopped to look at the evidence? Sure, on the surface, the above claim seems true, but when you delve deeper, you may be surprised at just how kind humans can actually be. “Humankind: A Hopeful History” dares to explore the vaults of history to discover the truth about human nature. The way we deal with catastrophes, support, and build bonds with those closest to us all point towards the positive rather than the negative. New York Times bestselling author, Rutger Bregman, puts forth the argument that perhaps the reason we’ve been around so long is because we’re kinder than we give ourselves credit for. “Bregman is using history to give the rest of us a chance to build a much better future.” ~ Timothy Snyder

Table of content

  • Summary of Humankind
  • About the author
  • What is Humankind about?
  • Who should read Humankind
  • Topics in Humankind
first key point

The good side of human nature is underrated

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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.
Humans have survived the most unimaginable dramas throughout history. Debate rages over whether this is down to luck or our ability to show kindness and empathy.
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.
When the going gets tough, we often think of others ahead of ourselves, contrary to popular opinion.
second key point

Catastrophes bring out the best in the community far and wide

Time and time again, we have shown that natural or man-made catastrophes often bring out the very best in people. After Hurricane Katrina devastated New Orleans, the news was reporting widespread crime and looting. There were stories of murders, rapes, and all manner of other dark crimes, which led the world to believe that when things go wrong, humans just turn their attention to themselves and literally throw everyone else under the bus.
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third key point

Are humans smarter or just friendlier?

fourth key point

Oxytocin works for and against you

fifth key point

Deep down, we have a fear of aggression

sixth key point

If humans are kind, how do you explain cruelty?

seventh key point

Human bonds can blind you to the right path

eighth key point

Give someone power and watch them change

ninth key point

Build a future based on the best side of human nature

tenth key point

Conclusion

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What is Humankind about?

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Do you find yourself staring at your computer for long minutes, unaware of time slipping by? Do you enter a room and suddenly cannot remember why you stepped in the first place? Is it a herculean task for you to sit through ten pages of a book without reaching for your phone? If yes, your focus needs some work and fast.

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