The Rational Optimist

Name: The Rational Optimist
Author: Matt Ridley

by Matt Ridley

Argument that human progress stems from exchange, specialization, and cooperation

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About the author

Matt Ridley

British science writer whose The Red Queen, Genome, and The Rational Optimist examine evolution, genetics, and the case for human progress. He argues consistently that markets and exchange, not governments, drive human flourishing. His optimism about human progress has been both influential and contested.

More by Matt Ridley

The Red QueenEvolution-driven analysis of how sexual selection shaped human nature and society
GenomeExploration of human nature through the lens of twenty-three chromosome stories
The Origins of VirtueInvestigation of altruism and morality through evolutionary psychology
Nature via NurtureExamination of nature-nurture debate and gene-environment interactions