The Rational Optimist

How Prosperity Evolves

By: Matt Ridley

Narrated by: L.J. Ganser

“A delightful and fascinating book filled with insight and wit, which will make you think twice and cheer up.” — Steven Pinker

In a bold and provocative interpretation of economic history, Matt Ridley, the New York Times-bestselling author of Genome and The Red Queen, makes the case for an economics of hope, arguing that the benefits of commerce, technology, innovation, and change—what Ridley calls cultural evolution—will inevitably increase human prosperity. Fans of the works of Jared Diamond (Guns, Germs, and Steel), Niall Ferguson (The Ascent of Money), and Thomas Friedman (The World Is Flat) will find much to ponder and enjoy in The Rational Optimist.

For two hundred years the pessimists have dominated public discourse, insisting that things will soon be getting much worse. But in fact, life is getting better—and at an accelerating rate. Food availability, income, and life span are up; disease, child mortality, and violence are down all across the globe. Africa is following Asia out of poverty; the Internet, the mobile phone, and container shipping are enriching people's lives as never before.

An astute, refreshing, and revelatory work that covers the entire sweep of human history—from the Stone Age to the Internet—The Rational Optimist will change your way of thinking about the world for the better.

Absolutely fantastic

Like another reviewer I've listened to it twice because I love it that much. It's clear, rational, and really thought provoking.

must-read - intelligent and uplifting

this book is a must-read. well-written, concise, and really puts things in perspective. intelligent and uplifting.

Ideas having Sex

This was a really enjoyable book to read and helped me find some comfort in the transforming world in which we live!

Also, I now will never stop thinking about ideas having sex, and what an important part of human progress that really is! Thanks Matt!

one of the few I read every 2 years

changed my way of looking at the world. Paradigm shifter for sure. In my top 10, probably top 5 favorites.

Excelent!!!!!!

This book shall be obligated reading for every politician before taking the office and also each student before receiving the degree!!