Biohistory is a revolutionary new theory that explores the biological and behavioural underpinnings of social change; including the rise and fall of civilisations. Informed by significant research into the physiological basis of behaviour conducted by author Dr Jim Penman and a team of scientists at RMIT University and the Florey Institute in Melbourne; Australia; Biohistory examines how a complex interplay between culture and biology has shaped civilisations from the Roman Empire to the modern West. Penman proposes that historical changes are driven by changes in the prevailing temperament of populations; based on physiological mechanisms that adapt animal behaviour to changing food conditions. It details the history of human society by mapping the effects of these epigenetic changes on cultures; and on historical tipping points including wars and revolutions. It shows how laboratory studies can be used to explain broad social and economic changes; including the fortunes of entire civilizations. The author's shocking conclusion is that the West is in terminal and inevitable decline; and that its only hope may lie with the biological sciences. Drawing on the disciplines of history; biology; anthropology and economics; Biohistory is the first theory of society that can be tested with some rigour in the laboratory. It explains how environment; cultural values and childrearing patterns determine whether societies prosper or collapse; and how social change can be both predicted and potentially through biochemistry.
#193895 in Books Conroy James B 2016-10-15Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 9.33 x 1.17 x 6.37l; .0 #File Name: 1442251344328 pagesLincoln s White House The People s House in Wartime
Review
5 of 5 people found the following review helpful. Once again; Conroy brings history to life with revealing ...By Henry HorbaczewskiOnce again; Conroy brings history to life with revealing portraits; telling vignettes and a fascinating backstage tour of the wartime White House in an age in which the President's staff did not outnumber the Army of the Potomac. If you seek not just knowledge but understanding; start here.2 of 2 people found the following review helpful. Enhanced Appreciation of President LincolnBy Richard J. LoweHaving thoroughly enjoyed Mr.Conroy's first book; Our One Common Country; I was truly excited to read his next story about Lincoln's time while in the White House. It did not disappoint... Very rarely and if ever has there been such a vivid account written where the reader feels like he or she has been transported back in history to intimately experience the trials and tribulations of Lincoln's political and personal life while in the Civil War White House. Mr. Conroy's work is exceptionally well-written; researched; insightful; enlightening; and funny. Overall; it's such a great read and one that I have and will continue to recommend to family and friends.2 of 2 people found the following review helpful. Startled and beguiled ...By Henri J BourneufJames Conroy draws a startling and compelling portrait of Lincoln at home during the war years. I was amazed anew at the fatalism with which he greeted the ever present threat of assassination; as well the superhuman patience with which he endured the never ending lines of fellow citizens; low; high; and middling; who waited to shake his hand; and otherwise waste his all too precious time; as he lead the nation through it's greatest crisis. The author makes masterful use of his documentary sources; apt and frequently beguiling quotes to illuminate the bizarre stage upon which Lincoln acted out his; and our; awful tragedy and partial redemption.
