Basic Books scoops Muthukrishna’s 'blueprint for a better life'

Basic Books has scooped A Theory of Everyone: Who We Are, How We Got Here, and Where We’re Going, Michael Muthukrishna’s "blueprint for a better life".

Nick Davies, m.d. of John Murray Press, and Sarah Caro, publishing director at Basic Books UK, acquired UK and Commonwealth rights to Muthukrishna’s first book for a general audience from MIT Press, for publication in hardback, e-book and audio on 28th September 2023.

In the book, Muthukrishna, associate professor of economic psychology at the London School of Economics, draws on research to paint a picture of who we are and what makes humans different from other forms of life. He argues that what sets us apart is our ability to create culture, a shared body of knowledge, skills, and experience passed on from generation to generation.

The synopsis said: "But it is only by understanding and applying the laws of life – the need for energy, innovation, co-operation and evolution – that we can solve the practical and existential challenges that face us now and in the future. A Theory of Everyone attempts to provide solutions for how to solve the most pressing problems of our collective future, such as polarization, inequality, the "great stagnation" in productivity, and the energy crisis."

Muthukrishna commented: “This book is about the future of humanity; about how each of our actions contributes to a collective brain. It’s about how Homo sapiens can reach the next level of abundance that leads to a better life for everyone and perhaps one day a civilization that spans the galaxy.

"A Theory of Everyone reveals how we can tie our societies back together, create a fairer world, evolve better governance structures, trigger a creative explosion, and become our best selves, a beacon for future generations.”

Davies added: "A Theory of Everyone is absolutely fizzing with ideas. I guarantee that anyone who reads Michael’s book will emerge with a fresh perspective on our evolution and a renewed sense of optimism for our future."

Caro said: “It is not often that one comes across a thinker as exciting and original as Michael and we are delighted to welcome him to Basic Books.”