What Can I Learn from History? — Book Notes

What Can I Learn from History?¶

History is partial — but we must learn to observe reality patiently within that constraint.

The more freedom exists, the less equality is possible. Only those below average want equality; the most capable want freedom — and ultimately it is that group who tends to get what they want.

Historical heroes mostly rise because circumstances demand them — their ordinarily untapped abilities get amplified many times over by events. The circumstances that shaped them make them the product of countless prior events, which then cause countless subsequent ones.

Economic history shows that concentration of wealth in a few hands is unavoidable — but it is periodically redistributed, either violently or peacefully, when the accumulated mass of the poor just barely matches the concentrated few. Leaders' motivations are often economic, but the outcomes of historical events are mostly decided by the passions of the masses.

Most governments are oligarchies: ruled by the few. Rulers depend on birth, religious institutions, or wealth (as in democratic systems).

The true meaning of democracy is equal opportunity and equal access to education — everyone has a chance to gain privilege, not just the right to vote.

What the whole book conveys is Will Durant's residual wisdom after a lifetime studying history. No judgments of better or worse — only cycles.