Enlightenment Now Summary

“Progress is not a miracle; it’s the result of applying reason, science, and humanism to solve problems.” – Steven Pinker

1. The Enlightenment: A Turning Point for Humanity

The Enlightenment, which began in the 18th century, marked a dramatic shift in how humans approached the world. It replaced superstition and fear with reason, science, and humanism. Before this era, people attributed natural disasters to witches or angry gods, and violence in the name of religion was rampant. The Enlightenment introduced the idea that reason, not dogma, should guide human actions.

This movement laid the foundation for modern values like equality, democracy, and progress. It challenged practices like slavery, which had been accepted for centuries, by applying rational thought to moral questions. The Enlightenment also promoted science as a tool to understand the world, leading to breakthroughs in medicine, psychology, and anthropology. These advances helped people see each other as equals, fostering humanism and cosmopolitanism.

Cosmopolitanism, a key Enlightenment value, rejects tribalism and embraces the idea that all humans deserve equal rights. This perspective has shaped modern societies, encouraging global cooperation and reducing discrimination. By focusing on shared humanity, the Enlightenment has helped create a more interconnected and tolerant world.

Examples

• The abolition of slavery was driven by Enlightenment ideals of reason and equality.
• Early scientific studies in psychology and anthropology helped debunk myths about racial superiority.
• Cosmopolitanism inspired the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, a cornerstone of modern global ethics.

2. Progress Is Real: The World Is Better Than Ever

Despite the negativity in the news, data shows that humanity has made remarkable progress. Life expectancy, wealth, and happiness are at all-time highs, while violence, poverty, and famine have significantly declined. This progress is a direct result of Enlightenment values like reason and science.

For example, global life expectancy has risen from 29 years in the 18th century to over 70 years today. This improvement is largely due to advances in medicine and public health, such as vaccines and sanitation. Similarly, extreme poverty has dropped from 90% of the global population in 1820 to less than 10% today, thanks to economic growth and international trade.

Even in areas like the environment, where challenges remain, there are reasons for optimism. Pollution levels have decreased in many parts of the world, and renewable energy sources are becoming more widespread. These achievements show that applying reason and science can solve even the most daunting problems.

Examples

• The global child mortality rate has plummeted, saving millions of lives each year.
• Countries like South Korea and Vietnam have rapidly reduced poverty through trade and innovation.
• Renewable energy now accounts for a growing share of global electricity production.

3. Life Expectancy and Health: A Triumph of Science

The Enlightenment sparked a revolution in health and longevity. In the 18th century, life expectancy was shockingly low, with many people dying from preventable diseases. Today, thanks to scientific advancements, people live longer and healthier lives than ever before.

One major factor is the reduction in child mortality. Vaccines, antibiotics, and improved hygiene have saved countless lives, allowing more children to reach adulthood. Maternal health has also improved dramatically, with fewer women dying in childbirth. These changes have had a profound impact on global life expectancy.

Diseases that once devastated populations, like smallpox and polio, have been eradicated or nearly eliminated. Public health campaigns have educated people about simple but effective measures, such as handwashing and mosquito nets. These efforts demonstrate the power of science to improve human well-being.

Examples

• Smallpox, which killed millions, was eradicated through a global vaccination campaign.
• In Ethiopia, life expectancy for a 10-year-old has increased by 17 years since 1950.
• The use of mosquito nets has drastically reduced malaria deaths in sub-Saharan Africa.

4. Wealth and Equality: A Rising Tide Lifts All Boats

Economic growth since the Enlightenment has transformed the world. In 1820, nearly 90% of people lived in extreme poverty. Today, that figure is below 10%. This progress has been driven by trade, innovation, and the spread of Enlightenment values like cosmopolitanism.

As nations grow wealthier, they tend to invest more in social programs, reducing inequality. This pattern, known as the Kuznets curve, shows that economic growth initially increases inequality but eventually leads to greater fairness. For example, European countries now spend an average of 22% of their income on social programs, compared to just 1.5% a century ago.

Globalization has also played a key role in reducing poverty. Countries like South Korea and Singapore have used trade to achieve rapid economic growth, lifting millions out of poverty. Even nations like Rwanda and Vietnam are doubling their incomes at unprecedented rates, showing that progress is possible everywhere.

Examples

• South Korea transformed from a war-torn nation to an economic powerhouse in just a few decades.
• The percentage of malnourished people worldwide has dropped from 35% in 1970 to 13% today.
• Social programs in Europe have significantly reduced poverty and improved quality of life.

5. Violence Is Declining: The World Is Safer Than Ever

Contrary to popular belief, we live in the safest period in human history. Wars, homicides, and other forms of violence have all decreased dramatically over the past century. This decline is a testament to the Enlightenment’s emphasis on reason and problem-solving.

For example, the establishment of the United Nations in 1945 has helped prevent conflicts and promote peace. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights, created shortly after, has set a global standard for treating people with dignity and respect. These efforts have contributed to a significant reduction in wars and genocides.

Rising wealth and education levels have also played a role. As countries become more prosperous, they are less likely to experience civil wars or revolutions. Better education helps people resolve conflicts peacefully, further reducing violence.

Examples

• The number of wars worldwide has decreased significantly since the mid-20th century.
• Civil wars in countries like Angola and Sri Lanka have ended, bringing stability to millions.
• Homicide rates have fallen in many parts of the world, including the United States and Europe.

6. Democracy and Equal Rights: A Legacy of the Enlightenment

Democracy, a cornerstone of the Enlightenment, has spread across the globe. Today, 103 countries are democratic, compared to just 12 in the 1920s. This shift has brought greater freedom, equality, and prosperity to billions of people.

Democracy protects citizens from tyranny and anarchy by providing a system of checks and balances. It also fosters economic growth, better education, and fewer human rights abuses. For example, democratic nations tend to have lower rates of genocide and higher levels of social trust.

The Enlightenment’s emphasis on equality has also reduced racism and sexism. Discriminatory laws have been repealed in most countries, and women now have the right to vote almost everywhere. These changes reflect the growing influence of Enlightenment values in shaping a fairer world.

Examples

• The number of countries with racial discrimination laws has dropped significantly since 1950.
• Women gained the right to vote in Saudi Arabia in 2015, a major milestone for gender equality.
• Democracies like India and South Africa have made significant progress in reducing inequality.

7. The Environment: Challenges and Solutions

While environmental challenges remain, the Enlightenment offers tools to address them. Science and reason have already led to significant progress in reducing pollution and developing renewable energy. For example, air quality in many cities has improved dramatically over the past few decades.

Climate change is a pressing issue, but it’s not insurmountable. By cutting CO2 emissions and investing in clean energy, we can mitigate its effects. The Paris Agreement, signed by nearly every country, is a step in the right direction. It shows that global cooperation is possible when we prioritize reason and evidence.

Public awareness is also growing, thanks to education and activism. People are increasingly adopting sustainable practices, such as recycling and using energy-efficient appliances. These small changes, combined with larger policy shifts, can make a big difference.

Examples

• The ozone layer is recovering thanks to the global ban on CFCs.
• Renewable energy sources like wind and solar are becoming more affordable and widespread.
• Cities like Copenhagen are leading the way in sustainable urban planning.

8. Fear and Negativity: A Media-Driven Illusion

The media often focuses on negative stories, creating the impression that the world is falling apart. However, this perception is misleading. Data shows that we are making progress in almost every area, from health to education to safety.

For example, terrorism is often portrayed as an existential threat, but the odds of dying in a terrorist attack are extremely low. Similarly, fears about artificial intelligence are largely unfounded. While AI poses challenges, it also offers opportunities to improve our lives.

By focusing on facts rather than fear, we can see the world more clearly. This perspective allows us to appreciate the progress we’ve made and work toward even greater achievements.

Examples

• Americans are more likely to die from a bee sting than a terrorist attack.
• AI has been used to improve healthcare, education, and transportation.
• Crime rates have fallen in many countries, despite media reports suggesting otherwise.

9. The Future: Enlightenment Values Are Here to Stay

Despite recent challenges, Enlightenment values continue to shape the world. Younger generations are more progressive, tolerant, and less religious than their predecessors. This trend suggests that reason, science, and humanism will remain guiding principles for the future.

Populist movements, while concerning, are not as widespread as they seem. In Europe, populist parties have gained only a small share of the vote, and their supporters are often older and less educated. This suggests that their influence will decline over time.

As more people embrace Enlightenment values, we can expect continued progress in areas like equality, democracy, and environmental sustainability. The future is bright, as long as we stay committed to reason and evidence.

Examples

• Polls show that younger generations are more accepting of diversity and LGBTQ+ rights.
• The number of people identifying as religious has declined in countries like Poland and Turkey.
• Global cooperation on issues like climate change demonstrates the power of Enlightenment ideals.

Takeaways

1. Focus on facts and data to counter negativity and fear in the media.
2. Support policies and initiatives that promote education, science, and global cooperation.
3. Embrace Enlightenment values like reason, humanism, and progress in your daily life.