Humility by Yuval Noah Harari

Summary for Class 12 NEB Students

Yuval Noah Harari (born 1976) is an Israeli historian and author, widely known for his thought‑provoking books on human history, society, and the future of civilization. His major works, including Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind and Homo Deus: A Brief History of Tomorrow, explore how knowledge, power, and belief systems shape human lives. In his essay Humility, Harari examines the limits of human understanding and the importance of recognizing our intellectual and cultural limitations in an age of rapid scientific and technological progress.

In Humility, Harari begins by reflecting on how modern science has dramatically expanded human knowledge, especially in fields like genetics, neuroscience, and artificial intelligence. Despite these advances, he argues that humility remains essential because human understanding is inherently limited. While we know more about the universe than previous generations, our knowledge still has gaps, and science continues to raise new questions faster than it can answer them. Harari emphasizes that acknowledging what we do not know is as important as celebrating what we do know, because overconfidence in human knowledge can lead to arrogance, misjudgment, and ethical pitfalls.

The essay also explores how humility relates to morality, politics, and the future of society. Harari suggests that many historical and social problems arise when individuals or nations believe they have complete answers or superior wisdom. He advocates for a balanced attitude in which humans combine ambition with careful reflection, ethical sensitivity, and openness to alternative viewpoints. By valuing humility, Harari believes that individuals and societies can avoid self‑deception, reduce conflict, and make wiser decisions in a complex and uncertain world. Ultimately, the essay calls for a deeper awareness of both our intellectual achievements and our limitations, urging readers to approach the future with curiosity and restraint.

Main Themes

• Limits of Human Knowledge: Modern science expands understanding, but much remains unknown.

• Importance of Humility: Recognizing our limitations helps prevent arrogance and error.

• Ethical Awareness: Humility supports ethical decisions and reduces harmful overconfidence.

• Open‑Mindedness: A humble attitude encourages openness to different viewpoints and ongoing learning.

Glossary

• humility (n.): quality of being modest and aware of one’s own limitations

• arrogance (n.): an attitude of superiority and overconfidence

• intellectual (adj.): related to thinking, reasoning, and understanding

• scientific progress (n.): advancement in knowledge through research and discovery

• ethical (adj.): connected with moral principles of right and wrong

• open‑mindedness (n.): willingness to consider different ideas and viewpoints

• self‑deception (n.): misleading oneself into believing something untrue

• curiosity (n.): desire to learn or know more about something

• restraint (n.): controlling impulses or keeping within limits

• uncertainty (n.): the state of being unsure or not having definite knowledge

a. What do you know about the Chinese civilization?

Chinese civilization is one of the oldest civilizations in the world. It has a long and continuous history marked by rich traditions in art, culture, philosophy, science, and innovation. Ancient China made significant contributions to human development, including paper, printing, gunpowder, and the compass. Its social, political, and cultural systems have influenced not only East Asia but also the wider world.

b. Are there any similarities between South Indian and Chinese civilizations? Discuss.

Yes, there are several similarities between South Indian and Chinese civilizations. Both civilizations are ancient and possess rich cultural, religious, and philosophical traditions. They have deep historical roots, strong artistic heritage, and well-developed systems of governance. Trade and cultural exchange also connected these regions in ancient times, contributing to similarities in architecture, philosophy, and social organization.

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Understanding the Text

a. Describe the claim of the Chinese nationalists about human history.

Chinese nationalists claim that human history began with the Yellow Emperor and continued through the Xia and Shang dynasties. According to them, Chinese civilization represents the true foundation of human progress and culture.

b. What do pious Muslims believe about human history?

Pious Muslims believe that human history revolves around the revelations of the Qur’an and the development of the Muslim ummah. They view Islamic history as the central and guiding force in human civilization.

c. What did the Aztecs firmly believe about the universe?

The Aztecs firmly believed that the survival of the universe depended on their ritual sacrifices. They thought that if they failed to offer sacrifices regularly, the sun would not rise and the universe would collapse.

d. What, according to the essay, are the universal human abilities?

According to the essay, the universal human abilities include mortality, creativity, art, spirituality, and imagination. These abilities are embedded in human DNA and are shared by all human beings, regardless of culture or civilization.

e. How are the basic yoga postures derived from the shape of the Hebrew alphabet letters?

The essay suggests that certain basic yoga postures, such as Trikonasana and Tuladandasana, resemble the shapes of letters from the Hebrew alphabet. This claim reflects how different cultures attempt to trace universal practices back to their own traditions.

Reference to the Context

a. How do Hindu nationalists refute the Chinese claim about the beginning of human history? Whom do you agree with, and why?

In the essay, the author explains that many cultures lack humility and consider themselves the center of human history. Chinese nationalists argue that human history began with the Yellow Emperor and early Chinese dynasties. In response, Hindu nationalists refute this claim by asserting that advanced technologies such as airplanes, rockets, and even nuclear weapons existed in ancient India.

They cite figures like Maharishi Bhardwaj, who allegedly invented aircraft; Vishwamitra, who used advanced weapons; and Acharya Kanad, regarded as the father of atomic theory. They also claim that the Mahabharata describes nuclear warfare.

I agree with the author rather than either nationalist view. The essay suggests that no single civilization owns human history and that exaggerated claims often arise from cultural pride rather than evidence.

b. Why has history become a major contested issue in the present world?

History has become a highly contested issue because many religious, national, and cultural groups attempt to present themselves as the most important contributors to human civilization. The author highlights examples from Hinduism, Islam, Judaism, and Chinese traditions to show how each group promotes its own version of history.

In today’s world, scientific advancements, nuclear power, and technological competition have intensified global rivalry. As nations seek dominance and influence, they often use history as a tool to assert superiority. The lack of humility and willingness to accept shared human heritage has made history a source of conflict rather than understanding.

Reference Beyond the Text

a. Write a short essay on The Conflicting History of Human Civilization.

Civilization refers to the advancement of human society in areas such as technology, politics, science, art, and social organization. Ancient civilizations developed through agriculture, trade, writing systems, and governance. Historians identify six essential characteristics of civilization: cities, religion, social structures, writing, government, and art.

The earliest civilizations emerged in Mesopotamia and Egypt and later spread to other regions of the world. Although humans have existed for millions of years, modern humans evolved around 200,000 years ago. Over time, civilizations developed independently across continents, leading to diverse cultural identities.

Conflicts arise when civilizations claim superiority over others. Each culture tends to highlight its own achievements while ignoring shared human progress. Understanding civilization as a collective human effort can reduce conflict and promote global harmony.

b. Do you agree with the claim, “It is more polite to criticize one’s own people than to criticize foreigners”? Give reasons.

Yes, I agree with the author’s claim. Criticism is an essential part of growth and improvement. When we criticize our own people politely and constructively, it is more likely to be accepted and lead to positive change. We understand our own culture and values better, allowing us to express criticism more sensitively.

Criticizing foreigners, even politely, may be misunderstood due to cultural differences and can be perceived as offensive. Constructive criticism within one’s own community strengthens self-reflection and progress, whereas criticism of outsiders often leads to conflict. Therefore, it is wiser and more effective to begin with self-criticism.