Because you often see and hear about violent occurrences in the news, are you anxious? Do you think we live in a violent era? In this book, Steven Pinker points out that continuous historical development has led to reductions in slavery, torture, and use of the death penalty. Wars have become sporadic; rape, domestic violence, and hate crimes have also declined. The likelihood of violent incidents has declined. In fact, we are living through the most peaceful era in human history. Bill Gates said it was "The most inspiring book I've ever read."