– Customer review on 12/03/2009

Whilst researching Locke and Tabula Rasa, I stumbled across Pinker's research on the topic. I've finally gotten around to reading it and was extremely impressed. I was expecting an attack on the blank slate and noble savage ideologies, as well as reasons to subscribe to innateness and where that innateness comes from. Whilst this is a part of what the books aim is, Pinker has also discussed many topics to do with human nature as a whole. Always eloquently worded and using a fair but decimating argumentative style, Pinker has managed to cut through many a priori prejudices that are embodied in this line of research. I've most certainly swapped sides in the blank slate debate, but am quite happy the Pinker has not belittled any of Locke's other ideas. In fact, the chapter on politics praises him for his work with early Democracy. A brilliant read. One of the best I've read this year.