The Better Angels of Our Nature Summary

Steven Pinker argues that, despite wars and horrifying acts of violence, many forms of violence have declined over long periods of human history. He examines warfare, homicide, torture, slavery, cruel punishment, domestic violence, persecution and violence against children and animals. According to Pinker, stronger governments, trade, literacy, education, reason, empathy and the expansion of human rights have gradually reduced violence. His argument is not that the modern world is peaceful or that progress is guaranteed. Rather, he maintains that violence should be measured historically instead of being judged only through disturbing daily news.

• Violence has declined in several areas: Long-term rates of homicide, torture and cruel punishment have generally fallen.
• News can distort perception: Modern communication makes distant violence highly visible, creating an impression of constant decline.
• The state reduced private revenge: Courts and policing gradually replaced personal retaliation and blood feuds.
• Trade encourages peaceful relations: Trading partners become more valuable alive and cooperative than dead or hostile.
• Literacy expands imagination: Reading helps people understand lives and experiences different from their own.
• Empathy discourages cruelty: Recognizing another person’s suffering can reduce support for violence.
• Reason challenges harmful traditions: Rational examination exposes the costs and contradictions of violence.
• Women’s influence matters: Pinker associates greater respect for women with less acceptance of violent values.
• Progress is reversible: Institutions maintaining peace can weaken or collapse.
• Important quotation: “The decline…has not been smooth; it has not brought violence down to zero.” Pinker clearly accepts that violence remains a serious problem.