Just cracked open @JoHenrich’s book.

Fascinating to learn how the rise of Protestantism was tied to the rise literacy rates in Europe. People were motivated to learn how to read largely by the promise that this was the key to salvation and eternal life.

Can’t help but think about analogies with today. Many people are becoming obsessively focused on learning about biology and metabolic health, motivated by the prospect of eternal life.

Back then people were chasing spiritual immortality. Today, people are chasing biological immortality.

To what extent are these pursuits similar or different? 🤔