Civilized to Death

In 'Civilized to Death: The Price of Progress,' Christopher Ryan challenges the notion that civilization is inherently good.

He argues that the advancements of modern society have introduced new and often more severe problems than those faced by prehistoric humans.

Ryan questions whether the dangers of pre-civilized life, such as infant mortality and life-threatening injuries, were more murderous than modern scourges like car accidents, cancers, and cardiovascular diseases.

He suggests that the shift from hunter-gatherer societies to agricultural and industrial societies has led to a decline in measures of health, longevity, security, and leisure.

The book proposes that looking back to the ways of hunter-gatherer societies could provide insights into creating a more sustainable and fulfilling future.