A blog devoted to the research and teaching of the history of humanity, aimed at enlivening the teaching of history, linking it to current social problems and debates.
Interactions in History
The events of history do not happen in a vacuum. Societies are deeply connected through their cultures and the exchange of ideas and values; they constantly interact and influence one another. This academic exercise helps students explore such interactions more deeply.
Introducing the United Nations
The United Nations is the world's principal international organization, comprising 193 national governments. This blog post provides more information about the UN's organizational structure and activities and includes an academic exercise to encourage deeper understanding.
Settling the Americas
Recent research has shown that the human occupation of the Americas took place much earlier than previously thought. As documentation about the first Americans builds and new evidence about their experiences is uncovered, we gain a better understanding of the variety and innovation of early settlers throughout the hemisphere.
How Have Processes of Evolution Changed Households?
Processes of evolution transform every aspect of human life. Households—the human centers of eating, resting, sleeping, and child-rearing—have evolved, too. This essay lists steps that show how the processes of biological, cultural, and social evolution have changed households.
The Case for Deepening World History
The Contending Voices blog—initially focused on debating today’s social priorities—is shifting toward exploring the principles, problems, and possibilities of the study of world history. By examining these questions, we may gain insights into addressing some of the very serious crises that humans face today.
Women Still Face Cruelty. That’s Why They’re Still Fighting Back: Stories from 2021
A collection of news stories from 2021 showcase the diverse and powerful voices that are working to uplift women around the world. Despite this, there remain many individuals, groups, and institutions committed to shouting those voices down.
Capitalism and Socialism: the Yin and Yang of Our Industrial World
Capitalism and socialism are contending sets of social priorities that came out of the same social situation: they are the Yin and Yang of industrial society. Both sets of priorities—even when badly out of balance—are essential for society to thrive. Is it possible that “democracy” could create a civil discourse and help to balance Yin and Yang?
To Limit Pollution and Improve Social Welfare, Stop Focusing on Growth
Plastic, cardboard, and methane are being produced, used, and thrown away in growing quantities. This threatens to destroy the social fabric of life on Earth—not to mention life itself. For decades, economic growth has been billed as the only path forward: With a booming economy, there will finally be enough to go around for everyone, and social welfare can then be improved. But there is already enough to go around. To improve social welfare, what we need now is to share more of what is currently being produced.
