Cognitive revolution reshaped history from "summary" of Sapiens: A Graphic History by Yuval Noah Harari
In the last few centuries, massive advancements in cognitive abilities have drastically changed the course of human history. This revolution has transformed how we relate to each other and the world around us, as we now have the ability to use our intelligence in order to shape our future.- The Cognitive Revolution drastically altered the history of our species by allowing us to think abstractly and perceive the world from new angles.
- Complex communication systems enabled us to control larger and more diverse groups of people, paving the way for monarchies and other forms of authority.
- Language broadened our ability to interact with others, which led to longer lasting relationships that extended beyond family or tribes.
- Art gave us the ability to portray real-world objects and intangible concepts, expressing emotions and perspectives that can be shared across cultures.
- It was a period when humans first started to speak, create art, form complex organizations, and develop religion and agriculture.
- At this time, we acquired the capacity to think about things as if they were independent of physical reality, such as entities in heaven or gods in the sky.
- Religion offered new sources of social cohesion and common purpose, allowing societies to make stronger commitments to each other and enabling them to accomplish great things together.
- In turn, this allowed for collective action in the event of conquests or through organized religions.
- Agriculture allowed us to store food and settle into fixed locations, creating wealth and leisure that could be devoted to personal growth and development.
