Im Grunde gut. Eine neue Geschichte der Menschheit

Rutger Bregman argues against the common idea that humans are basically selfish and that civilization is only a thin coating over a brutal nature. He revisits famous experiments and stories, such as the Stanford prison study, Milgram's obedience tests, and the novel Lord of the Flies, and shows where they were flawed or misrepresented. He contrasts that with a real 1966 case of six Tongan boys shipwrecked on an island who cooperated to survive for over a year.

Readers who follow debates about human nature, politics, and psychology will find a clear, optimistic argument supported with evidence. It leaves you with a reason to be more trusting and with questions about how institutions encourage cynicism.

Deep and contemplative; a moderate read.

Best for readers like The Evidence Seeker. Which reader are you?