What if the commonly accepted narratives about the foundation of civilization are all wrong? Drawing on groundbreaking research, archaeologist David Wengrow challenges traditional thinking about the social evolution of humanity -- from the invention of agriculture to the formation of cities and class systems -- and explains how rethinking history can radically change our perspective on inequality and modern life.

David Wengrow: A new understanding of human history and the roots of inequality

A new understanding of human history and the roots of inequality

Evidence suggests cities without rulers were common, revealing diverse forms of social organization pre-dating modern democracy.

Reexamining human history shows a spectrum of societies, from egalitarian to stratified, challenging our views on civilization.

Before cities and inequality, millennia thrived without monarchs; participatory societies fostered tech and social advances.