Enlightenment Now
In 'Enlightenment Now,' Steven Pinker argues for the enduring power of reason, science, and humanism in shaping modern society. He presents compelling evidence that, contrary to popular belief, the world is improving in terms of health, wealth, safety, and happiness. With a blend of statistics and philosophical insights, Pinker challenges the pessimistic narratives prevalent today. He advocates for an optimistic view of human progress, suggesting that the principles of the Enlightenment are more relevant than ever. This thought-provoking exploration invites readers to reconsider their understanding of progress and the potential of humanity.
By Steven Pinker
Published: 2018
Start Listening
Play Preview
You might also like →
21 Lessons for the 21st Century
Yuval Noah Harari
Smartcuts
Shane Snow
The Happiness Hypothesis
Jonathan Haidt
Super Human
Dave Asprey
For the Win
Kevin Werbach, Dan Hunter
Society of the Spectacle
Guy Debord
A Brief History of Everything (20th Anniversary Edition)
Ken Wilber
Parable of the Sower
Octavia E. Butler
The Natural History of Religion
David Hume
Off the Clock
Laura Vanderkam
As a Man Thinketh
James Allen
The Enchiridion
Epictetus, James Harris
Walden
Henry David Thoreau
The Encyclopedia of Earth
Michael Allaby
Infinite in All Directions
Freeman J. Dyson
The Cheese Trap
Neal D Barnard
Girl, Woman, Other
Bernardine Evaristo
The Complete Essays
Michel de Montaigne
Plato at the Googleplex
Rebecca Goldstein
The Making of a Philosopher
Colin McGinn
Plato and a Platypus Walk into a Bar . . .
Thomas Cathcart, Daniel Klein
Confessions of a Philosopher
Bryan Magee
Kafka on the Shore
Haruki Murakami
The Enigma of Reason
Hugo Mercier, Dan Sperber
Manhattan Beach
Jennifer Egan
Into the Wild
Jon Krakauer
The Symbolic Life
Carl Gustav Jung
The Meaning of Human Existence
Edward O. Wilson
Book Collections you might like →
Sam Harris's Book Recommendations
Sam Harris is an American neuroscientist, philosopher, author, and host of the Making Sense podcast, where he explores topics related to science, religion, politics, and philosophy. Harris is known for his advocacy of secularism and rational thinking, and his books, including The End of Faith and Waking Up, have been best-sellers. He is also a meditation teacher, offering guidance on mindfulness and spirituality through his Waking Up app. Harris’s work often focuses on the intersection of science and ethics, and he is a prominent figure in debates about free will, consciousness, and moral philosophy.
View Collection
Naval Ravikant's Book Recommendations
Naval Ravikant is an entrepreneur, angel investor, and philosopher, best known as the co-founder of AngelList, a platform that connects startups with investors. Ravikant is a prolific thinker and writer on topics such as startups, investing, and personal well-being, sharing his wisdom through essays, podcasts, and social media. He has invested in over 100 companies, including Uber, Twitter, and Yammer, making him one of Silicon Valley’s most successful angel investors. Ravikant is also known for his philosophical musings on wealth, happiness, and the meaning of life, which have garnered him a large and dedicated following.
View Collection
Abi Tyas Tunggal's Book Recommendations
Abi Tyas Tunggal is a distinguished author known for his impactful contributions to contemporary literature and digital content. He has garnered acclaim for his insightful storytelling and adept handling of complex themes, resonating with a diverse readership. Tunggal's work often explores the intersections of technology, society, and human experience, making him a prominent voice in modern narrative arts. Beyond his literary achievements, he is also recognized for his innovative use of digital platforms to engage with and expand his audience. Tunggal continues to influence the literary landscape with his thought-provoking and accessible writing.
View Collection
Joe Rogan's Book Recommendations
Joe Rogan is a multifaceted American entertainer known primarily for his work as a comedian, podcast host, and commentator. He gained widespread recognition through his immensely popular podcast, "The Joe Rogan Experience," which has featured in-depth conversations with a diverse array of guests, including scientists, celebrities, and politicians. Though not primarily known for literature, Rogan has contributed to the field with his thought-provoking discussions that often explore philosophical and intellectual ideas. Additionally, he has authored the book "Mastering the Rubber Guard," which delves into Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu techniques, showcasing his expertise in martial arts. Rogan's influence extends beyond traditional media, impacting contemporary discourse through his unique blend of humor, curiosity, and critical thinking.
View Collection
Barack Obama's Book Recommendations
Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.
View Collection
Nassim Nicholas Taleb's Book Recommendations
Nassim Nicholas Taleb is a Lebanese-American author, scholar, and risk analyst, best known for his work on uncertainty, probability, and risk. His books, including The Black Swan and Antifragile, explore how rare and unpredictable events shape the world and how individuals and systems can become more resilient to shocks. Taleb’s insights on risk management have influenced fields ranging from finance to medicine, and he is known for his outspoken criticism of conventional wisdom. His ideas about randomness, decision-making, and the limitations of human knowledge have made him a leading thinker in modern economics and philosophy.
View Collection
Andrew Wilkinson's Book Recommendations
Andrew Wilkinson is a distinguished author and entrepreneur, best known for his insightful business writings and contributions to the tech industry. He co-founded MetaLab, a prominent design agency that has shaped the user experience of major platforms like Slack and Coinbase. Wilkinson's entrepreneurial journey and his publications provide valuable perspectives on startup culture, innovation, and leadership. His writing, often featured in leading business magazines and his personal blog, has garnered a wide readership for its practical advice and engaging storytelling. Andrew continues to influence both literature and the business world with his unique blend of creativity and strategic thinking.
View Collection
David Deutsch's Book Recommendations
David Deutsch is a British physicist and philosopher, widely known for his contributions to quantum mechanics, particularly in the area of quantum computation. He is the author of The Fabric of Reality and The Beginning of Infinity, where he explores the nature of knowledge, progress, and the future of human civilization. Deutsch’s work in quantum computing laid the groundwork for the development of quantum algorithms, positioning him as a pioneer in this emerging field. He is a proponent of the multiverse theory and has offered profound insights into the nature of reality, science, and human potential. Deutsch’s philosophical work emphasizes the power of reason and creativity in solving problems and expanding human understanding. His ideas have had a significant impact on the fields of theoretical physics and epistemology, making him a leading thinker on the future of science and technology. He continues to inspire both scientists and lay readers with his optimistic vision of a world shaped by knowledge and innovation.
View Collection
David Sinclair's Book Recommendations
David Sinclair is an Australian biologist and professor at Harvard Medical School, known for his pioneering research in the field of aging and longevity. Sinclair's work focuses on understanding the biological mechanisms that drive aging and developing interventions to slow or reverse the process. His bestselling book Lifespan: Why We Age – and Why We Don’t Have To explores the latest advancements in anti-aging science and offers insights into how humans might extend their healthspan. Sinclair's research has led to breakthroughs in areas such as sirtuins, NAD+ metabolism, and cellular reprogramming. He is also the co-founder of several biotech companies, including Sirtris Pharmaceuticals and Life Biosciences, dedicated to translating aging research into practical treatments. Sinclair is a vocal advocate for taking a proactive approach to aging, promoting lifestyle changes and emerging therapies to delay age-related diseases. His work has made him a leading figure in the longevity movement, influencing both scientific and public discourse on the future of health.
View Collection
Malcolm Gladwell's Book Recommendations
Malcolm Gladwell is a Canadian journalist, author, and public speaker, best known for his best-selling books The Tipping Point, Outliers, and Blink. Gladwell’s work often explores the hidden patterns behind success, decision-making, and social phenomena, using storytelling to make complex ideas accessible to a wide audience. He has written extensively for The New Yorker and hosts the popular podcast Revisionist History, where he reexamines overlooked or misunderstood events in history. Gladwell is known for his ability to challenge conventional wisdom and provoke new ways of thinking about human behavior and societal trends.
View Collection
Daniel Petre's Book Recommendations
Daniel Petre is a distinguished Australian entrepreneur, author, and philanthropist known for his impactful contributions to the business and literary worlds. He co-founded the venture capital firm AirTree Ventures, which has significantly influenced the technology startup ecosystem in Australia. Petre has authored several influential books on technology and leadership, including "The Clever Country?" and "Father Time," which explore themes of innovation and work-life balance. His writing often reflects his deep commitment to shaping a forward-thinking, inclusive society. Beyond his literary and business endeavors, Petre is also recognized for his substantial philanthropic efforts, particularly in education and healthcare.
View Collection
Bill Gates's Book Recommendations
Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft Corporation, is a pioneering figure in the tech industry, having played a key role in the personal computer revolution. His work at Microsoft, particularly the development of Windows, transformed software and computing globally. Beyond his technology contributions, Gates is also a prolific author, with notable works such as "The Road Ahead" and "Business @ the Speed of Thought," which offer insights into the future of technology and business. Additionally, his philanthropic efforts through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation have had a profound impact on global health, education, and poverty. Gates continues to influence both technology and literature with his forward-thinking perspectives and innovative ideas.
View Collection
James Clear's Book Recommendations
James Clear is the author of the bestselling book Atomic Habits, which focuses on the power of small habits and incremental improvements to achieve significant personal and professional growth. Clear’s writing blends insights from psychology, neuroscience, and productivity to provide practical strategies for building better habits. His work has helped millions of people create positive changes in their lives by focusing on the process rather than the outcome. James’s clear, actionable advice has made him a sought-after speaker and thought leader in the field of personal development.
View Collection
Mark Manson's Book Recommendations
Mark Manson is a best-selling author and personal development expert known for his candid and no-nonsense approach to self-help. His most notable work, "The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck," has sold millions of copies worldwide and has been translated into numerous languages, resonating with readers for its practical advice and irreverent tone. Manson followed up with another successful book, "Everything Is F*cked: A Book About Hope," which further cemented his reputation as a thought leader in modern existentialism. In addition to his books, he runs a popular blog that delves into topics ranging from happiness to personal growth. His work has not only transformed the self-help genre but also influenced a global audience seeking authentic and actionable guidance.
View Collection
Adam Grant's Book Recommendations
Adam Grant is a renowned organizational psychologist and bestselling author, celebrated for his influential work on motivation and workplace dynamics. He is a professor at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, where he has been the youngest tenured professor and earned numerous teaching awards. Grant's books, including "Give and Take," "Originals," and "Think Again," have been translated into multiple languages and have topped bestseller lists worldwide. His research and insights are frequently featured in major media outlets, and he hosts the popular podcast "WorkLife." Through his writing and speaking, Grant has profoundly impacted the fields of psychology, business, and education.
View Collection
Michael Mauboussin's Book Recommendations
Michael Mauboussin is a renowned investment strategist and author, known for his influential work in the fields of finance and behavioral economics. He has authored several acclaimed books, including "More Than You Know: Finding Financial Wisdom in Unconventional Places" and "The Success Equation: Untangling Skill and Luck in Business, Sports, and Investing." Mauboussin serves as Head of Consilient Research at Counterpoint Global, a division of Morgan Stanley Investment Management. His insights into decision-making, market behavior, and investment strategies have made significant contributions to both academic literature and practical applications in finance. Additionally, Mauboussin is a frequent lecturer and has taught at esteemed institutions like Columbia Business School.
View CollectionFrequently Asked Questions
Explore Our Catalogue
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.