A Theory of Everyone: Who We Are, How We Got Here, and Where We’re Going

A blueprint for a better future.

Playing on the phrase "a theory of everything" in physics, Michael Muthukrishna offers a unified theory of human behavior, culture, and society – a theory of everyone.

Drawing on the most recent research across the sciences, humanities, and the emerging field of cultural evolution, he paints a panoramic picture of who we are and exactly what makes human beings different from all other forms of life on the planet.

Muthukrishna argues that it is our unique ability to create culture, a shared body of knowledge, skills, and experience passed on from generation to generation that has enabled our current dominance. But it is only by understanding and applying the laws of life – the need for energy, innovation, cooperation and evolution – that we can solve the practical and existential challenges we face as a species.

A Theory of Everyone attempts to provide solutions for how to solve the most pressing problems of our collective future, such as polarization, inequality, the "great stagnation" in productivity, and the energy crisis. Casting a bold and ambitious net, this is a must-read for anyone interested in a better future for ourselves and generations to come.

About the Author

Michael Muthukrishna is an Associate Professor of Economic Psychology at LSE. He has been awarded a CIFAR Azrieli Global Scholarship for outstanding early career research, and is a board member of the One Pencil Project which combines academic research with philanthropy. He uses a combination of mathematical and computational modelling, experimental research and data methods from psychology and economics to understand the psychological and evolutionary processes underlying culture and social change and to look for ways to apply this understanding to the challenges currently facing us as a species.

Reviews

"Muthukrishna has a heart as big as his intellect, which is saying something. In this original, fascinating, and provocative book he dives deep into who we humans are and what makes us tick. His hopeful message is that once we understand ourselves better we'll coexist better. Let's prove him right" —Andrew McAfee, author of The Geek Way and co-author of The Second Machine Age

"Buzzing with ideas, A Theory of Everyone encourages us to rethink what it is to be human. A compelling and essential read for anyone interested in building a better, more sustainable future" —David Bodanis, author of The Art of Fairness 

"A big, bold and ambitious look at the world around us in which nothing is off limits. Wonderfully refreshing and thought-provoking" —Peter Frankopan, author of The Silk Roads

"A Theory of Everyone is your guide to some of the most important advances in the social sciences, written by a foremost researcher, beautifully illustrated, and positively overflowing with fascinating facts and ideas" —Erez Yoeli, Director, Applied Cooperation Initiative, MIT, co-author of Hidden Games

"A must read for anyone interested in understanding the forces that shape all of our lives. Full of scientific discoveries, revolutionary insights, and delightful storytelling, you will not only see the world differently, you'll have the tools to create a brighter future" —Michele Gelfand, Professor, Stanford Graduate School of Business and author of Rule Makers, Rule Breakers 

Dimensions: 12.8 x 3 x 19.6 cm