Pathogenesis: A History of the World in Eight Plagues

En savoir plus sur le livre

This work provides a sweeping examination of how pivotal historical transformations, from the rise of Homo sapiens to capitalism, have been influenced more by germs than by human actions. Traditionally, the narrative of progress emphasizes human intellect and strength as the driving forces behind social and political change. However, the author, a professor, contends that this notion of human exceptionalism exaggerates our role, arguing that it is microbes that have truly shaped history by winning wars and dismantling empires. Utilizing recent research across genetics, anthropology, archaeology, and economics, the book traverses 60,000 years, focusing on eight significant outbreaks of infectious disease that have molded the modern world. These pathogens played critical roles in the extinction of Neanderthals, the rise of Islam, the shift from feudalism to capitalism, the impacts of European colonialism, and the transformation of the United States into a global superpower. Even Christianity's ascent was influenced by pandemics that swept the Roman Empire, as caring for the sick helped elevate a minor sect into a major religion. By positioning disease at the heart of human history, the author challenges deep-seated beliefs about our past and suggests that we are currently facing another disease-driven turning point that will redefine history.