Pathogenesis

by Jonathan Kennedy
Pathogenesis cover
Good Books rating 4.17
History
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  • ID: 2976
  • Added: 2025-10-16
  • Updated: 2025-10-16
  • ISBN: 9781473594432
  • Publisher: Random House
  • Published: 2023-04-13
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

In Pathogenesis, Dr. Jonathan Kennedy reveals the profound impact of infectious diseases on human history. From the success of Homo sapiens over Neanderthals to the fall of Rome and the rise of Islam, germs have played a pivotal role. The book explores how a volcanic eruption in Indonesia contributed to the Black Death, setting Europe on the path to capitalism, and how 168 men managed to extract the largest ransom in history from an opposing army of eighty thousand. The latest science shows that infectious diseases are not just external threats but a fundamental part of who we are, influencing our evolution and societal development. By examining the startling intimacy of our relationship with microbes, Kennedy transforms our understanding of the human story, challenging long-held beliefs about colonialism and evolution. Pathogenesis is a provocative and insightful journey through history, revealing how diseases have driven some of the most significant revolutions of the past 50,000 years. The book is praised for its engaging narrative and the way it brims with fascinating facts, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of science and history. It challenges the conventional understanding of survival of the fittest, showing that evolution is as much about our coexistence with microbes as it is about human strength and intelligence.

Reviews
BookPage · 2025-10-16
convincing 4.00

The reviewer finds Kennedy's argument convincing and well-supported, highlighting the significant role of germs and diseases in molding human history. They appreciate the book's comprehensive approach and its relevance to understanding current and future health challenges.

BookPage's review praises Jonathan Kennedy for making a compelling case that germs, viruses, and diseases have played a crucial role in shaping human history. The reviewer finds the book's argument convincing and well-supported by scientific evidence. They appreciate the comprehensive approach taken by Kennedy, which provides a broad perspective on how infectious diseases have influenced societal development. The reviewer also highlights the book's relevance to current and future health challenges, making it a timely and important read. Overall, they find the book to be both informative and thought-provoking.

Quick quotes

    Public health scholar Jonathan Kennedy makes a convincing case that germs, viruses and diseases have helped to mold human history.

    The book provides a broad perspective on how infectious diseases have influenced societal development.

    Kennedy's work is particularly relevant in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Wandering Medievalist · 2023-06-16
informative 4.50

The reviewer praises Kennedy's ability to challenge traditional views and update historical narratives with new scientific insights. They find the book both informative and engaging, highlighting its unique perspective on the role of germs in shaping history.

The Wandering Medievalist blog review commends Jonathan Kennedy for his skillful presentation of how diseases have influenced human history. The reviewer particularly appreciates how Kennedy challenges and updates traditional views, providing a fresh and scientifically grounded perspective. They find the book to be both informative and entertaining, comparing it favorably to the works of Mary Roach. The reviewer highlights the book's ability to make complex scientific concepts accessible and engaging, making it a valuable read for anyone interested in the intersection of history and science.

Quick quotes

    Kennedy does an excellent job of outlining the more traditional views, and then either upending or updating them.

    The book is informative and entertaining, in the vein of Mary Roach.

    Kennedy's work is particularly relevant in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Guardian · 2023-04-06
fascinating 4.00

The book offers a compelling exploration of how diseases have influenced human history, providing a fresh perspective on our relationship with pathogens. It highlights the profound impact of infectious diseases on societal development.

The Guardian's review emphasizes how Pathogenesis provides a fascinating account of how diseases have shaped humanity from the Neolithic era to the present day. The reviewer appreciates the book's broad scope and its ability to connect historical events with the spread of infectious diseases. They note that Kennedy's work is particularly relevant in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, offering valuable insights into how we might better prepare for future health crises. The reviewer finds the book informative and thought-provoking, highlighting its significance in understanding the interconnectedness of human history and disease.

Quick quotes

    A fascinating account of how diseases have shaped humanity, from the neolithic to Covid-19.

    Kennedy's work is particularly relevant in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

    The book offers valuable insights into how we might better prepare for future health crises.

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