Hubris

Reviews / Votes

"Through meticulous research and a compelling narrative, Hubris weaves the tapestry of our species' history and evolution, exploring how people adapted, innovated, and persevered in the face of adversity. Through stories of the impact on us of ancient migrations, cultural transitions, and environmental upheavals, the authors illuminate the ways in which humanity faced and overcame challenges in our history, offering valuable insights for navigating the uncertainties of the present and future."
Beth Shapiro, University of California, Santa Cruz

"Johannes Krause and Thomas Trappe have again crafted a captivating and accessible survey of human evolution. Based on the most advanced methods of ancient DNA analysis, the authors explore the latest hypotheses to explain the successful expansion of Homo sapiens across the globe, but also the dire consequences of this expansion, as we are the first species capable of driving other species to extinction - and potentially ourselves. We humans have never accepted the limitations of the world that we have come to dominate; and we are on the verge of seeking other worlds to colonize, or perhaps destroy. And yet Krause and Trappe hold out hope. While our intelligence and creativity are products of genetic evolution, we can decide how to use these extraordinary capabilities. If we choose the path of destruction, to paraphrase Shakespeare, the fault is not in our DNA, but in ourselves."
Patrick J. Geary, Princeton University

"Hubris describes an astounding arc through deep human history from the distinctive perspective of ancient DNA. From the remote past of the various human species, through the spread of our own species, its global history and its encounters with lethal infections, to the multiple crises that now threaten our future, we are taken on a fast expert tour through this hubristic trajectory. The authors' account is fascinating; sometimes blunt and even disturbing, but always clear, concise and readable."
Robert D. Attenborough, University of Cambridge

"Neanderthals differed from us linguistically and cognitively. The question is: can we leverage those differences to rein in our avaricious impulses before it's too late? Can we mobilise culture to override biology?... We've failed dismally so far, but maybe we still have it in us. Or maybe the real hubris is to think that we are anything other than a dead end waiting to happen."
Laura Spinney, The Guardian