Humankind: A Hopeful History

What insights does Bregman offer into the ways societal structures, like punitive justice systems and competitive corporate cultures, shape human behavior? Can you identify any parallels or contrasts with your own experiences or observations?

Discuss Bregman’s focus on The Importance and Prevalence of Cooperation in human history as opposed to the more commonly cited competitive aspects. What implications does his argument have for one’s understanding of progress and social organization?

Analyze how Bregman’s narrative style—mixing journalistic investigation, historical account, and social commentary—affects the delivery and reception of his arguments. How does this multi-genre approach influence your understanding of the book’s themes?

How does Humankind address the prevailing sense of cynicism in modern culture, particularly as it is portrayed in media and politics? Do you agree with Bregman’s perspective on why this cynicism exists?

Choose three examples that Bregman uses to illustrate human empathy and altruism, even in adverse situations. How do these examples challenge traditional notions of “survival of the fittest?”

How does Humankind critique or support current economic models and theories based on its optimistic view of human nature? What alternative economic systems does it propose or imply?

How does Bregman use language to shape and challenge conventional views on human nature, cooperation, and societal systems? Are there terms or phrases that stand out as particularly impactful?

Humankind often revisits well-known historical events but interprets them through a different lens. Choose one such event discussed in the book and compare it to conventional accounts. What impact does this reinterpretation have on your understanding of human nature?