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

Knowledge helps humans live comfortably, have fulfilling lives, and resist the forces of entropy. Technologies like the printing press and electronic media have helped “exponentiate” the growth of knowledge. Pinker argues that a thorough, fact-based knowledge of our lives, surroundings, history, and nature elevates us to a “higher plane of consciousness” (233). After centuries in which little education was available to the public, education is finally considered a human right and is mandatory in most countries, and schools are considered major institutions. Literacy, numeracy, and basic life knowledge, including sex education, can greatly impact people’s opportunities in life as well as health and lifespan.

Pinker examines the relationship between education and prosperity, arguing that the data shows investing in education pays off because better-educated children generate more wealth as adults—and have fewer children. Pinker praises good education for propagating Enlightenment thinking by questioning superstition, decreasing prejudice, and encouraging reflection and open-mindedness. He claims that studies show educated people are less discriminatory, value free speech, have higher levels of social trust, and more often participate in politics, unions, and community projects.

The amount of time people spend in school has dramatically increased over the last century. In the 1920s, fewer than a third of US teens were in school, but the number steadily rose to today’s 80% US high school graduation rate.