Who We Are and How We Got Here Summary of Key Points

David Reich’s ‘Who We Are and How We Got Here: Ancient DNA and the New Science of the Human Past’ delves into the revolutionary field of genomics, specifically the study of ancient DNA, to shed light on human history and evolution. The book explores how the analysis of DNA from ancient bones has transformed our understanding of the human species, revealing surprising migrations, previously unknown genetic exchanges, and hidden chapters of our past. Reich explains complex scientific concepts in an accessible manner, offering insights into how genetics can provide a more nuanced picture of human history.

Superforecasting Summary of Key Points

Superforecasting: The Art and Science of Prediction by Philip E. Tetlock and Dan Gardner dives into the world of forecasting, challenging the notion that the future is fundamentally unpredictable. The book presents compelling evidence from the Good Judgment Project, which demonstrates that certain individuals, dubbed ‘superforecasters,’ can predict future events with remarkable accuracy. These superforecasters possess qualities such as open-mindedness, diligence, numeracy, and a willingness to update their beliefs in light of new evidence. Tetlock and Gardner dissect the methodologies these individuals employ, offering insights into how forecasting accuracy can be significantly improved through specific habits of mind and practice.