The Cognitive Revolution kick-started history about 70,000 years ago. The Agricultural Revolution sped it up about 12,000 years ago. The Scientific Revolution, which got under way only 500 years ago, may well end history and start something completely different.

Cognitive leap:The Cognitive Revolution marked a significant shift in human capabilities. It allowed Homo sapiens to develop complex language, create shared myths, and cooperate flexibly in large numbers. This unique ability to believe in collective fictions enabled the creation of religions, nations, and economic systems.

Outcompeting other species:With these new cognitive abilities, Sapiens quickly spread across the globe, outcompeting and often replacing other human species like Neanderthals. They adapted to diverse environments and became the dominant species on Earth.

Key advantages of Sapiens: