Dominion

Synopsis

'If great books encourage you to look at the world in an entirely new way, then Dominion is a very great book indeed . . . Written with terrific learning, enthusiasm and good humour, Holland's book is not just supremely provocative, but often very funny' Sunday Times History Book of the Year

Christianity is the most enduring and influential legacy of the ancient world, and its emergence the single most transformative development in Western history. Even the increasing number in the West today who have abandoned the faith of their forebears, and dismiss all religion as pointless superstition, remain recognisably its heirs. Seen close-up, the division between a sceptic and a believer may seem unbridgeable. Widen the focus, though, and Christianity's enduring impact upon the West can be seen in the emergence of much that has traditionally been cast as its nemesis: in science, in secularism, and yes, even in atheism.

That is why Dominion will place the story of how we came to be what we are, and how we think the way that we do, in the broadest historical context. Ranging in time from the Persian invasion of Greece in 480 BC to the on-going migration crisis in Europe today, and from Nebuchadnezzar to the Beatles, it will explore just what it was that made Christianity so revolutionary and disruptive; how completely it came to saturate the mind-set of Latin Christendom; and why, in a West that has become increasingly doubtful of religion's claims, so many of its instincts remain irredeemably Christian. The aim is twofold: to make the reader appreciate just how novel and uncanny were Christian teachings when they first appeared in the world; and to make ourselves, and all that we take for granted, appear similarly strange in consequence. We stand at the end-point of an extraordinary transformation in the understanding of what it is to be human: one that can only be fully appreciated by tracing the arc of its parabola over millennia.

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Summary

Chapter 1

In the first chapter of the book “Dominion” by Richard Dawkins, the author begins by introducing the concept of evolutionary dominion. Dawkins explains that the world is made up of an extremely complex web of living organisms, which are all connected in some way, and that clearly, the human race is the species most capable of dominating this intricate web. He also lays out his concept of the “selfish gene” which is based around an organism’s instinctive need for survival and an innate desire to make sure their own genetic material is passed on to successive generations. Dawkins argues that this same instinct is what enables humans to climb to the top of the evolutionary chain and gain dominance over other species. He also states that our newfound abilities mean that we must take on new responsibilities. We must use our newfound power for the benefit of all species, not just for ourselves, and in doing so, we can use evolution as the basis for creating a better world.

Chapter 2

In chapter two of “Dominion”, Dawkins expands on the concept of evolutionary dominion and introduces the idea that the human species is not only the most dominate species on the planet but also the most “intelligent” species. He states that our “intelligence” allows us to make conscious decisions about our behavior, which can have a profound impact on the lives of other species and even our own environment. Dawkins then discusses the conflicts humans often find themselves in when attempting to balance their own needs with the needs of other species and the environment. With reference to examples, such as the industrial revolution and the effects of mass deforestation, Dawkins shows how humans must be more aware of their choices and their actions if they are to make any positive changes to the world they inhabit.

Chapter 3

In Chapter Three of “Dominion”, Dawkins introduces the concept of stewardship. He argues that since humans have evolved to become the most dominate species, it is our responsibility as “stewards” to take charge of managing the earth’s resources, particularly when it comes to those which are in decline or at risk. He further explains that this responsibility requires a thoughtful approach to resource use - we must think carefully about how we use and distribute resources, while considering the well-being of the wider ecosystem. He argues that if we don’t take this responsibility seriously, then the future of the planet could be in danger. Dawkins also outlines the implications of human stewardship on other species and the need to protect and preserve them, highlighting the importance of legislation and conservation.

Chapter 4

In the final chapter of “Dominion”, Dawkins argues that although humans have become the most dominate species, they must also use that dominance responsibly. He emphasizes that humans are not separate from nature but are in fact part of it, sharing the same resources and energy of the planet with other species. Dawkins argues that as a species, humans must use their power for the benefit of all living things, not just ourselves, and he finishes the book by encouraging a new kind of stewardship based not on exploitation of resources, but on the conservation and protection of them. He reminds us that our future and the future of all species on the planet depends on us to make the right decisions.