67 pages • 2 hours read
David Graeber, David WengrowThe Dawn of Everything: A New History of Humanity
Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2021A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
In their 2021 book The Dawn of Everything, David Graeber and David Wengrow challenge traditional narratives about the development of human societies, arguing that early human organization was more complex and varied than previously thought. They examine archaeological and anthropological evidence to debunk myths about the inevitability of hierarchical structures and social inequality, suggesting instead that early societies exhibited significant fluidity and democratic principles. The book also explores how Indigenous critiques of European culture influenced Enlightenment ideals and provides diverse examples from ancient civilizations around the world.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
The Dawn of Everything by David Graeber and David Wengrow is praised for its bold re-evaluation of human history, challenging conventional narratives about the development of societies. Reviewers commend its engaging prose and rigorous scholarship but acknowledge that its ambitious scope can occasionally lead to speculative interpretations. Overall, it's a thought-provoking read that stimulates debate.
Who Should Read The Dawn of Everything?
A reader captivated by The Dawn of Everything by David Graeber and David Wengrow likely enjoys thought-provoking, paradigm-challenging histories and anthropologies. Fans of Jared Diamond's Guns, Germs, and Steel or Yuval Noah Harari's Sapiens will appreciate this book's robust investigation into human history and societal development.