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Modern society is safer than ever before from "summary" of The Better Angels of Our Nature by Steven Pinker
In the grand sweep of history, violence has steadily declined, and modern society stands as the safest era that humanity has ever known. This may seem counterintuitive, given the constant barrage of negative news that bombards us on a daily basis. However, the data tells a different story. When we look at the statistics, we see a remarkable trend towards less violence and more peace. One key factor contributing to the safety of modern society is the presence of strong institutions that uphold the rule of law. These institutions, such as the police and the judiciary, serve as a deterrent to potential wrongdoers and provide a system of justice that punishes those who do commit crimes. In the past, justice was often dispensed through personal vendettas and blood feuds, leading to cycles of violence that could spiral out of control. Today, we have a system in place that is designed to prevent and punish acts of violence. Another reason for the decline in violence is the spread of empathy and reason. As human beings, we have evolved to be social creatures, and as we have become more interconnected through technology and globalization, we have developed a greater sense of empathy for others. This sense of empathy is coupled with a rational understanding of the benefits of cooperation and the costs of conflict. This combination of empathy and reason has led to a more peaceful and harmonious society. Advancements in technology have also played a crucial role in making modern society safer. From the development of vaccines and antibiotics that have eradicated deadly diseases to the creation of surveillance systems that can prevent crime before it happens, technology has given us tools to protect ourselves and our communities. We are able to anticipate and respond to threats more effectively than ever before, making us less vulnerable to violence. Despite the progress that has been made, there are still pockets of violence and conflict in the world today. However, when we take a step back and look at the big picture, we see that these instances are the exception rather than the rule. By focusing on the data and trends that show a decline in violence over time, we can gain a more accurate understanding of the state of modern society. Violence may still exist, but it is far less prevalent than it has been in the past.
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