Why Did Human History Unfold Differently on Different Continents for the Last 13,000 Years

Human History Unfolded by Evolutionary and Geographical Variables

In his 1997 talk “Why Did Human History Unfold Differently On Different Continents for the Last 13,000 Years?” Jared Diamond, a biogeographer and evolutionary biologist, theorizes that the imbalance of power in the world has nothing to do with IQ differences and everything to do with evolutionary and geographical reasons. This theory is significant because it an attempt to put an end to racist theories of biological differences in IQ. Diamond supports his theory about continent development through both cause and effect analysis, showing the consequences of a string of events, and comparison of the different continents’ axes.

His purpose is to inform readers about the three evolutionary key factors of guns, germs, and steel in order to dispel certain racist myths as to why Europeans conquered Africans and Native Americans instead of the other way around. The use of his Diamond uses a formal tone in his talk because his audience primarily consists of other scientists. In my analysis of Diamond’s text I will examine which geographic and evolutionary patterns have had a dramatic effect on human population numbers, technology development, and the spread of disease, determining the success of particular regions.

Throughout his talk, Diamond crafts his language effectively to get his point across to his audience. Diamond sets up the purpose of his talk with “Why did history take such different evolutionary courses for peoples of different continents?” (par. 1). He later goes on to rephrase this to “Why did human development proceed at such different rates on different continents for the last 13,000 years?” (par. 6). After, he continues with cause and effect analysis by describing the consequences of evolutionary events. Diamond even clearly summarizes his main points throughout the talk. The organization of Diamond’s claims allows the audience to follow along and comprehend the focus of his argument.

Diamond is persuasive in his talk because he uses both logos and ethos. Diamond appeals to logos by using logical evidence such as scientific facts, historical analogies, and factual examples. He evokes a cognitive, rational response which leaves a lasting effect on the audience causing them to think in a way they would not have probably thought prior. His use of ethos builds his credibility and trustworthiness. Diamond develops ethos through his background knowledge, professional format, and appearance of fair mindedness. This allows his audience to see him as a reliable, competent, and credible source. He ultimately demonstrates his expertise of the subject through his use of ethos.

Diamonds compares North America, South America, Europe, and Asia by summarizing and interpreting the histories of each continent. Ships, political organization, writing, germs, guns, steal swords, and horses are identified as