The Undivided Past: Humanity Beyond Our Differences
*Starred Review* For much of recorded history, human beings have argued and even gone to war on the basis of perceived differences of religion, nationality, class, gender, race, and civilization. But we’re not doomed to keep viewing the world as us versus them, argues historian Cannadine. If we move beyond binary notions of good and evil, we can instead focus on our common humanity. Cannadine systematically examines the six most pervasive areas of identities across historical periods, as well as the role of theologians, historians, politicians, and pundits in continually emphasizing differences. For example, historical interactions between Christianity, Islam, and Judaism were far more nuanced and fluid, with as many conflicts within the religious groups as among them, than is now commonly understood. Despite undeniable differences, the common areas of conflict have come from particular group interests, exaggerated notions of the importance of the differences, an insistence on a binary perspective, and reinforced historical accounts that deny our commonalities. Drawing on history, philosophy, economics, sociology, and religion, Cannadine offers a broad and sweeping look at the myriad ways we’ve been at each other’s throats throughout history. Still, he ends with the hopeful prospect that more historians will reexamine the chronicles of group conflicts and offer balanced perspectives. --Vanessa Bush