Steven Pinker

The world today is less violent than it has ever been.

From The Better Angels of Our Nature

Cultural and institutional changes have played a significant role in reducing violence.

From The Better Angels of Our Nature

The decline of violence may be the most important thing that has happened in the history of our species.

From The Better Angels of Our Nature

As we move toward a more peaceful world, we should not forget the forces that drive the decline of violence.

From The Better Angels of Our Nature

Cultural changes have played a significant role in reducing violence.

From The Better Angels of Our Nature

The better angels of our nature are the empathic emotions that restrain violence.

From The Better Angels of Our Nature

Empathy is a crucial component of our moral progress.

From The Better Angels of Our Nature

Violence has been in decline over long stretches of history.

From The Better Angels of Our Nature

We have the capacity for both good and evil, and it is our choices that define us.

From The Better Angels of Our Nature

The expansion of literacy and education correlates with a decline in violence.

From The Better Angels of Our Nature