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Peak Human

What We Can Learn from History’s Greatest Civilizations

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Peak Human

By: Johan Norberg
Narrated by: Andrew Cullum
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About this listen

All golden ages are marked by periods of spectacular cultural flourishing, scientific exploration, technological achievement and economic growth; yet no two are the same. Their beliefs, societies and place in the wider world all vary. Despite this, all previous golden ages have ended, whether it be because of external pressures or internal fracturing; too much hubris or too little wariness.

Looking at seven of humanity's greatest civilisations—ancient Athens, the Roman Republic, Abbasid Baghdad, Song China, Renaissance Italy, the Dutch Republic and the Anglosphere—historian and commentator Johan Norberg seeks to distil their strengths and shortcomings in answering the question: how do we ensure that our current golden age doesn't end?

As insightful as it is riveting, Peak Human is at once a paean to our incredible progress and a warning that we cannot afford to be complacent.

©2025 Johan Norberg (P)2025 W.F. Howes Ltd Civilization Music World Middle East Socialism Middle Ages Iran Imperialism China Latin American Africa Self-Determination Ancient History Military Capitalism Crusade

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All stars
Most relevant
What a weekend with Johan as a companion. This books is a must read, in summary a story of what makes human societies successful – and what brings them down. A smart book about our history. Read it, listen to it. Johan Norberg is back!

Norberg is back!

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A sprawling, entertaining guide from the past that can help us navigate a future we can no longer take for granted. Busts myths, piques curiosity and adds depth. My commutes will be lesser without it!


Timely and insightful

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In this book Johan Norberg shows the importance of openness in 7 'golden age' civilisations.

This book argues effectively that openness, free markets, free trade, free discourse/exchange of ideas are important staples for any prosperace society.

It also warns of the results of closed orthodoxies, and how this is always a present and tempting danger that often follows any social golden age.

An important book, that educates, informs and leaves the reader reflecting upon the best way forward for our current society.

great lessons from history

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Beautifully written, explains convincingly why golden ages arise and collapse. With important lessons for us living in a Trumpian world.

A superb history book

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I haven't come across Norberg's work before. I found this book both fascinating and insightful. Lessons from history about what makes societies succeed and fail. Well worth reading!

Best book of the year so far

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