Positives Many reviewers praise this ambitious and extensively researched book for its central thesis: that violence has been on a long-term decline across various categories throughout human history. The author is commended for presenting a vast accumulation of evidence, including historical, statistical, sociological, and neurobiological data, supported by numerous graphs and charts. Readers found the writing style to be exceptionally clear, engaging, and often fascinating, making a dense subject accessible with anecdotes and pop culture references. The book is seen as a powerful antidote to media-driven pessimism, offering a surprising and well-documented perspective on human progress in reducing conflict and brutality. Specific strengths highlighted include the exploration of factors like the growth of democracy, the spread of communication, the feminization of society, and the evolution of rights movements and civilizing processes.
Negatives Despite its strengths, the book draws significant criticism, particularly regarding its methodology and perceived biases. Many reviewers found the book excessively long and sprawling, leading to a tedious reading experience in parts. Concerns were raised about the author's selective interpretation of data, occasional misrepresentation of statistics, and reliance on potentially flawed or amateur sources for historical figures. Critics argue that the book's definition of violence is too narrow, often ignoring systemic coercion or individual suffering when focusing on per-capita rates. A recurring negative point is the book's ethnocentric perspective, primarily focusing on Western history and downplaying or caricaturing non-Western contexts and leftist ideologies. Reviewers also noted an apparent ideological agenda, particularly a strong pro-Enlightenment, pro-liberal, and sometimes anti-religious stance, which some felt led to an imbalanced and arrogant presentation of arguments, including a tendency to dismiss opposing viewpoints as "straw men."
Conclusion Ultimately, this book is widely considered a significant and thought-provoking work, even by its detractors. While its comprehensive scope and optimistic outlook are appreciated, readers should be prepared for a challenging read that has been accused of ideological leanings and a selective use of evidence. It is recommended for those with a serious interest in sociology, history, politics, and human behavior who are willing to engage with a complex, sustained argument that challenges conventional wisdom about the state of the world. However, readers seeking a globally balanced perspective or a less ideologically driven analysis may find aspects of the book frustrating. It is best approached by those open to re-evaluating their perceptions of historical violence, provided they maintain a critical eye on the data and interpretations presented.
