"Guns, Germs, and Steel" (theory)

"Guns, Germs, and Steel" is a theory proposed by historian Jared Diamond that explains the differing rates of development among human societies. It argues that environmental factors, such as geography, the availability of domesticable plants and animals, and access to resources, played crucial roles in shaping civilizations. Societies that developed agriculture earlier could support larger populations, leading to advancements in technology, political organization, and military power. This resulted in European domination over other regions, rather than inherent differences in intelligence or capability among people. The title reflects the key elements that contributed to societal success: military strength, disease, and technology.