Steven Pinker: Enlightenment Now
Today’s world is characterized by people clinging to beliefs, hyperpolarization and the degradation of discourse. However, acclaimed author and psychologist Steven Pinker argues the very opposite: The world is actually improving, and there’s never been a safer and better time to be alive.
In his book Enlightenment Now, Pinker makes the case that Enlightenment principles of reason, science and humanism are directly enhancing the quality of life for everyone—not just the West. However, a number of Anti-Enlightenment practices threaten the progress of human development. According to Pinker, dedication to romantic ideologies, political affiliations and religions have protected unscientific arguments, preventing resolutions on issues ranging from gun violence to climate change.
Join one of the world’s leading thinkers for a powerful conversation about human nature, a defense of knowledge and the case for science, reason, humanism and progress.
Notes:
Pinker photo by Rose Lincoln, Harvard University
This program is generously supported by the Ken and Jackie Broad Family Fund.
Special thanks to United Airlines.
Steven Pinker
Johnstone Family Professor of Psychology, Harvard University; Author, Enlightenment Now: The Case for Reason, Science, Humanism, and Progress; Twitter @sapinker
In Conversation with Kishore Hari
Host, "Inquiring Minds" Podcast
