Kirjahaku

In spite of recent advances in the study of evolution, scholars have shied away from the most intriguing problem of all—how and why animal nature became human nature. In confronting this problem, Peter Wilson leads his readers on a fascinating exploration. What made it possible, he asks, for one genus of the order Primates, living in Africa in the Plio-Pleistocene era, to become human and to develop culture? Continuing the tradition of bold speculation fathered by the philosophical anthropology of Hobbes and Rousseau, Wilson seeks to unravel the evidence for such basic human adaptations as self-conscious thought, symbolic kinship, ritual behavior, and objective reasoning. While genetics may account for potentialities and limits, Wilson argues that the actual evolution of a species can be understood only in relation to the changing conditions of its environment. Rejecting the idea of a human evolutionary leap as contradicting Darwin’s theory, Wilson shows how the continuity of the genus Homo within the order Primates is to be found in generalization. Man was and is a promising primate, of endless potential coupled with a vulnerable need to exchange promises. From these emerge kinship systems, society, and culture. This incisive and gracefully written book offers both a new synthesis and a fresh starting point for evolutionists in several disciplines. Its central argument and special insights—into fatherhood, the incest taboo, marriage, and the relation of food to thought—challenge current emphasis on biogenetic determinism and provide a new approach to anthropological theorizing.

In the exciting book Peter J. Wilson takes domestication as the starting point for his continued inquiry into human evolution. Wilson argues that settling down into a built environment was the most radical and far-reaching innovation in human development and that it had a crucial effect on human psychology and social relations. The insights of this book point the way toward amendments to social theories that will challenge the professional reader and at the same time offer to the general reader an enriched understanding of human behavior and human history. “This book is a rare occurrence: a total rethinking of a set of closely related fundamental problems in the understanding of human evolution….[An] immensely ambitious undertaking.”—Paul Wheatley, Contemporary Sociology“This approach merges societies in surprising ways….It certainly leads to some provocative and stimulating generalizations.”—John Bodley, American journal of Physical Anthropology“Perhaps this book is revolutionary…asking us to rethink human nature, its causes, its cures…It holds out the real possibilities of redoing the human condition by reconceptualizing the power of our environs….[Wilson] has given is a book that is hard to put down once begun, and one whose ideas are even harder to dismiss.”—Harvey B. Sarles, Contemporary Psychology“This is definitely a book on which to sharpen one’s wits….The author invites the reader to think with him about matters not only past but also present which have much relevance for our future. This book makes lively and mind-stretching reading.”—Ashley Montagu

Forget the old ideologies force-fed to us in our schools. They don't make sense and have failed us all for centuries. The warnings are sounding louder than ever. Throughout the world, violent maniacs claim control of our lives, amassing fortunes and evermore power at our expense. For the sake of all honest and peaceful humans, we must claim our rightful power to control our own lives, but we will need the tools described in this book. Conquer your fears, release your old thinking, and explore the breathtaking possibility of empowerment for ALL people. Embrace the ultimate liberation that is your birthright. This book presents the solution and it is you. Arm yourself with the essential tools of critical thinking and sound principles of human interaction. With new-found clarity, you will become a powerful defender of the innocent. Your actions and words will help transform this violent world into a realm of freedom and respectful interaction for ALL of us. You are the Awakening Hero. It's time to free your brothers and sisters, and to free your-self The book presents the two "Statements of Basic Human Rights"---the principles that offer true freedom and justice for ALL humans. You will also learn the "Four Rationalization-Busters". These irrefutable principles effectively counter any and all proposals to violate basic human rights. Consistent respect for others' basic human rights is the only way to a better world.