Michael Clemens

Discover the positive trends and problems that have shaped the world since your parents and grandparents were young. "Your World, Better" explores the changes in health, wealth, homes, school and work, rights and democracy, war and the environment, as well as happiness and depression. Written for smart and engaged middle school students, this book offers insights on what we can do to tackle the challenges that remain. Plus, all author royalties from sales will be donated to UNICEF.

Discover the fascinating history of mankind's battles with infectious disease in The Plague Cycle. This gripping read explores how plagues have influenced the size and vitality of cities, economies, and empires for over four thousand years. From exclusion methods like quarantining the sick to modern medicine, author Charles Kenny charts humanity's remarkable progress through history, economics, and public health. With climate and population fluctuations making us more vulnerable than ever to newly emerging plagues, urgent global cooperation is needed. This timely and vividly written book is perfect for fans of Yuval Harari's Sapiens and John Barry's The Great Influenza.

"Free to Move" by Ilya Somin explores how "voting with your feet" can enhance political liberty for individuals around the world. By making decisions about immigrating, choosing where to live within a federal system, and supporting certain private sector choices, people can avoid the pitfalls of traditional ballot box voting. Somin argues for expanded opportunities for foot voting domestically and internationally, and addresses common objections to migration rights. This thought-provoking book challenges conventional political viewpoints on both sides of the spectrum.

This book explores the decline of plagues and infectious diseases globally, and how it has impacted the evolution of modern states, cities, and national economies. While it's good news that fewer people are dying from infectious diseases, the author examines the unintended consequences and inequalities that have emerged. This book seamlessly weaves together a historical narrative with contemporary case studies to highlight the paradox in our fight against infectious diseases. It ultimately raises the question of what we should do next as we move forward with this progress.

A captivating glimpse into the world of social science experiments, this book explores how radical researchers have challenged conventional beliefs to shape our lives. From curing scurvy to improving literacy rates, the author shares fascinating stories of randomized trials that led to groundbreaking discoveries. Written in a style reminiscent of Malcolm Gladwell, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in the power of science to improve society.