1. Athens: democrats, dreamers and other deviants -- 2. Rome: melting pot of marble -- 3. The Abbasid Caliphate: at the crossroads of the universe -- 4. Song China: on the threshold of modernity -- 5. Renaissance Italy: the rebirth of law, literature and libertas -- 6. The Dutch Republic: trade, toleration and other treasures of the shore -- 7. The Anglosphere: industry, individualism and impertinence -- Conclusion: further rise or inevitable decline?

"All golden ages are marked by periods of spectacular cultural flourishing, scientific exploration, technological achievement and economic growth; yet no two are the same. Their beliefs, societies and place in the wider world all vary. Despite this, all previous golden ages have ended, whether it be because of external pressures or internal fracturing; too much hubris or too little wariness. Looking at seven of humanity's greatest civilizations - ancient Athens, the Roman Republic, Abbasid Baghdad, Song China, Renaissance Italy, the Dutch Republic and the Anglosphere - historian and commentator Johan Norberg seeks to distil their strengths and shortcomings in answering the question: how do we ensure that our current golden age doesn't end? As insightful as it is riveting, Peak Human is at once a paean to our incredible progress and a warning that we cannot afford to be complacent."--Publisher's description