‘Sapiens’, authored by Israeli philosopher and historian Yuval Noah Harari, is one of the best-selling scientific books in history, with over 25 million copies sold. Since its publication in 2011, the book has been translated into more than 60 languages and has consistently topped bestseller lists, including The New York Times. It has garnered endorsements from prominent political and scientific figures, and its Arabic edition has become one of the most widely read books in the Arab world, a noteworthy achievement. The book’s extraordinary success can be attributed to its comprehensive approach to exploring the unknown history of humanity. Harari examines where and how the human race began, presenting these complex topics in a simplified, engaging style that appeals to both scientific and general audiences.
Drawing on his expertise in science, economics, philosophy, and history, Harari crafted a work that has inspired dozens of lectures, countless articles, and widespread discussions. He has also been a frequent guest on leading international television programs and interviews. ‘Sapiens’ delves into the history of humanity, from its origins to the present day, focusing on how Homo sapiens evolved to become the dominant species on Earth. Harari organizes his narrative around three pivotal revolutions:
The Cognitive Revolution (70,000 years ago): This period marked the development of unique mental and linguistic capabilities that enabled Homo sapiens to cooperate on a large scale, share knowledge, and create shared myths and narratives.
The Agricultural Revolution (10,000 years ago): Humans transitioned from hunting and gathering to agriculture, leading to profound social and economic transformations.
The Scientific Revolution (500 years ago): With the adoption of the scientific method, humans began to understand and control the natural world, driving remarkable technological and intellectual progress. Harari argues that one of Homo sapiens’ greatest achievements is the ability to imagine entities that do not exist in physical reality — such as gods, nations, money, and laws—enabling the creation of complex societies.
The book also examines the impact of economic and political systems, such as capitalism and empires, on shaping the modern world. Harari explores the costs of the agricultural and industrial revolutions, highlighting the disconnection between technological progress and human happiness, as well as humanity’s impact on the environment. He raises profound philosophical questions about whether progress has truly made people happier and invites readers to reflect on the meaning of happiness and well-being. Harari’s accessible writing style blends history, anthropology, philosophy, and science, making complex concepts comprehensible to a broad audience. He vividly portrays how Homo sapiens triumphed over other human species through a combination of intelligence and adaptability.
Despite its acclaim, Sapiens has faced criticism. Some historians argue that Harari oversimplifies historical events, focuses excessively on negative aspects, and occasionally demonstrates bias. Nonetheless, the book remains a compelling exploration of human history, provoking deep philosophical questions about humanity’s journey. For those interested in understanding how humans reached their current state, Sapiens is an essential read. * * * We offer our sincere condolences to our friend, Professor Muhammad Nagia, and his family on the passing of his companion, Salwa Tahboub. May God have mercy on her.
By Ahmad alsarraf
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