Enlightenment Now: The Case for Reason, Science, Humanism, and Progress

Pinker states that he’ll offer a new perspective on world progress that is “inspired by the ideals of the Enlightenment: reason, science, humanism, and progress” (xvii) to argue against the “bleak assessment” that the world is only getting worse, a view he describes as popular but completely misguided. He notes that these cynical views can have significant consequences in politics, arguing that pessimism is widespread among people of all educational backgrounds and political views. He attributes the election of Donald Trump as president to shared negative ideas about societal progress (or lack thereof). Pinker concludes the preface by thanking the many scientists whose research helped inform his work. He establishes a clear goal for what he hopes to convey—and emphasizes the enlightenment ideals he’ll use as a lens to evaluate progress.

Pinker recalls a student asking him, “‘Why should I live?’” (2). He considers this the most “arresting” question he has ever been asked. Pinker pointed out that the student was seeking reasons to live and therefore was “committed to reason” (3) as an important part of her worldview. He told her that there are many reasons to live, including exploring one’s potential, appreciating and contributing to science and the arts, experiencing pleasure and the natural world, giving and receiving compassion, and helping further progress in the world.