Regarding the reader comments (Letters to Editor, September/October 2018) on Steven Pinker’s earlier article, “Progressophobia”: Do you hear yourselves? “I hate what the world has become in my lifetime.” “I can’t accept his statements because they directly contradict my long experience.” “The situation now is worse than any I have seen in my lifetime.” Friends, your myopia is showing!
Before us stands the epitome of a true man of science whose contributions are of the highest quality in terms of thorough research and addressing views from all relevant perspectives, including those expressed by you. If I were king, The Better Angels of Our Nature and Enlightenment Now would be required reading for every adult on the planet.
And so, I want to challenge you to read one or both of these books and then express your disagreements. Any supporter of science and skepticism will recognize Pinker’s profound contribution, with little doubt that he has handled the subject skillfully, thoroughly, and thoughtfully. I am deeply grateful that Professor Pinker has decided to compile and share such knowledge and insight with me.