Published: 1997
Patterns in history and the development of civilization interest me. I had heard about this book two years previous, but I only recently found the time to read it.
This is a book about history, geography, and even a little agriculture; however, Diamond writes well and ensures that the reader is able to follow his arguments, regardless of the reader's background. The included maps are helpful and easy to understand, and all the terminology is clearly explained.
Diamond strives to explicate why some societies in history have successfully dominated others. He explains how geography has played a major role in shaping human societies over time, influencing their exposure to disease and access to plant, animal, and mineral resources. While this perspective is deterministic, Diamond clearly states that the inevitability of European advancement does not justify the historic subjugation of other societies.
Diamond explains his theories well and even addresses some of their shortcomings. However, some of Diamond's ideas are criticized by history scholars. Regardless, I think that his arguments are well reasoned and worth reading, even if they are only part of the story of human civilization.
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