ISBN: 0060984031 Order from: Amazon.com
While somewhat repetetive, this well-written book outlines in an entertaining but substantial fashion a fascinating theory of human development.
Reviewed by David on August 21, 2002
Genre: Nonfiction
Synopsis: An articulate, educational and entertaining book covering a number of fascinating as well as important subjects.
Full Review: The author, a Professor of Physiology, with interest in archeology, linguistics and anthropology, has once again addressed fascinating questions of human development. In this book, Diamond addresses the fascinating questions of how we are different from other animals, and indeed, how similar. In these critical factors, the author finds the explanation for our civilization, behavior, and possible demise.
As in other books, the author is articuate and persuasive. Many of the subjects he addresses, from paleolinguistics, to DNA drift, to the settlement of the Americas, are fascinating, controversial, or both. Thus, both the style and the subject matter provide plenty of satisfaction.
As in many other charismatic books, some evidence of the author's position lack rigor. To the author's credit, he usually makes these clear, although the reader is well advised not to take this book as comprehensive on the fascinating topics addressed.
In all, this is an interesting, well-written and persuasive book, providnig plenty of food for thought as well as reading pleasure.
Overall: 6; Style: 5.5; Originality: 5.5;
Copyright date 1992, HarperCollins (Perennial), February 1993, Trade paperback
ISBN: 0060984031 Order from: Amazon.com