Summary of Peter Turchin's Ages of Discord

Please note: This is a companion version & not the original book.

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#1 The American Civil War was the first time the American political elites failed to compromise, and it led to the loss of life and land for many. 150 years later, we are seeing the same problems arise among American political elites.

#2 The difference between us and our predecessors is that we are gaining a better understanding of the inner workings of societies. We have better theories and data to help us figure out what makes societies function better, and what causes dysfunction.

#3 Cliodynamics is a historical science that studies the mechanisms that affect the functioning of complex macrosocial systems. It aims to gain a deep understanding of the dynamics and functioning of societies, and use that understanding to solve societal problems.

#4 History has failed to provide useful guidance for public policy. We need theory, which includes general principles that explain the functioning and dynamics of societies and models that are built on these principles.

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Rafbók: 7 april 2022