Description
Book SynopsisAn all-encompassing look at three forces that shape human history, from the Stone Age to the present day.
Trade Review'An extremely ambitious attempt to explain the history of humankind. Thompson's historical materialism provides him with a reliable compass on his journey and the end result is nothing short of inspiring' -- Stefan Berger, Professor of Social History and Director of the Institute for Social Movements at Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Germany
'An engaging and concise world history that is both analytically ambitious and lucidly argued' -- John Callaghan, Professor of Politics, University of Salford
'A powerful book derived from decades of historical research and reflection on the essence of what it is to be human. A must read' -- Dianne Kirby, Reader in International History, University of Ulster
'A welcome addition to the history of change in the global human condition and situation' -- Dr KAJ McLay, Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Humanities, Canterbury Christ Church University
Table of ContentsPreface and Acknowledgements
Historical Timeline
Introduction: The Fabric of History
1. Cosmos, Creatures and Consciousness
2. Cooperation, Stone, Bone and Dispersal
3. The Neolithic Transformation and Its Consequences: Settlement, Wealth and Social Differentiation
4. Gender Differentiation, Sex and Kindred
5. Status Differentiation, Hierarchy and Hegemony
6. Exploitation and Violence
7. Ethics, Ambitions, Crime and Punishment
8. The Origins of Belief in the Supernatural and the First Salvation Religions
9. Monotheism
10. Imagined Communities: Signs and Symbols, Identities and Nations
11. A Broad View – The Rhythm of Empire
12. Human Reality in Transformation: Modern Population, Migration and Labour
13. Inhuman Powers: Capitalism, Industry and Their Consequences
14. No Such Thing as a Free Lunch: Trade-Offs, Opportunity Cost and the Dynamic of Unintended Consequences
15. Social Critique
16. Socialism: Its Promise and Paradox
17. Desperately Seeking Significance
Notes
Index
