59 pages 1 hour read

Rutger Bregman

Humankind: A Hopeful History

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2019

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Essay Topics

1.

How does Rutger Bregman employ historical anecdotes, scientific studies, and philosophical arguments to build his case for the Innate Goodness of Humans? Discuss how these elements interact to reinforce the book’s central thesis.

2.

What insights does Bregman offer into the ways societal structures, like punitive justice systems and competitive corporate cultures, shape human behavior? Can you identify any parallels or contrasts with your own experiences or observations?

3.

Discuss Bregman’s focus on The Importance and Prevalence of Cooperation in human history as opposed to the more commonly cited competitive aspects. What implications does his argument have for one’s understanding of progress and social organization?