Humankind: Are We Good Or Evil? | Rutger Bregman | Modern Wisdom Podcast 181

Exploring Human Nature: Insights from Rutger Bregman on the Modern Wisdom Podcast

Rutger Bregman, renowned historian and author, discusses the inherently good nature of human beings on the Modern Wisdom Podcast. Bregman challenges the cynical view of humanity that has dominated historical and political narratives, proposing a more optimistic, evidence-backed perspective.

Core Concepts and Philosophies

Bregman's main thesis revolves around the inherent goodness of people, suggesting that societal systems do not need to operate under the assumption that humans are naturally selfish and aggressive. He cites a "silent revolution" in science that supports a more hopeful view of human nature, emphasizing cooperation over competition. This perspective is not just theoretical but is grounded in recent findings across anthropology, psychology, and biology.

Practical Strategies and Advice

• Embrace an optimistic view of human nature to foster more cooperative and democratic societal structures.

• Challenge existing power structures that are predicated on a cynical view of humanity.

• Implement educational and institutional reforms that reflect a trust in people's decency and cooperative abilities.

Supporting Evidence

Bregman references a wide array of interdisciplinary studies that contradict the traditional views of Hobbesian pessimism about human nature, which views life as "nasty, brutish, and short" without strong control mechanisms. Instead, the evidence suggests that societies that leverage human cooperativeness tend to flourish more than those that emphasize authoritarian control.

Personal Application

Bregman practices what he preaches by engaging in public discussions and debates that aim to reshape how people think about each other and societal organization. His personal approach underscores the importance of dialogue and education in transforming societal views.

Recommendations for Tools and Techniques

• Use social media responsibly to spread positive narratives about human cooperation.

• Engage in and promote participatory forms of democracy that empower individuals.

• Incorporate lessons on the science of human nature into educational curriculums to help shift perspectives from a young age.