Guns, Germs, and Steel

Essential idea: many biogeographical factors conspired to make the pace of the development of human civilization significantly faster on the Eurasian continent than on others (America, sub-Saharan Africa, Australia, and so on). This broad pattern resulted in Eurasian dominance for most of recorded history.

Very many details are given in support of this basic argument. Food production is discussed, as is the domestication of plants and animals, the diffusion of culture and technology, the complexification of societies, and so on. Admittedly, I am no expert on these matters, but as a scientifically-minded and interested party, consider me convinced. Although, perhaps there is a whiff of suspiciousness at how neatly everything seems to tie together, with almost no details given that would lead to conclusions contradictory to the desired ones. Without knowing more about the subject matter, though, that's just being paranoid.

I think that this kind of very big picture, very integrative thinking is refreshing and admirable, something to aspire to someday be able to do.