Why Farming Was History’s Biggest Mistake: Lessons from Sapiens

For thousands of years, the Agricultural Revolution has been celebrated as the cornerstone of human progress. Yet, beneath this triumphant narrative lies a paradox: farming often made life harder, not easier, for the average person.

Before agriculture, hunter-gatherers enjoyed diverse diets, shorter working hours, and relatively egalitarian social structures. Archaeological findings reveal that early farmers suffered from malnutrition, dental problems, and infectious diseases at much higher rates. Their reliance on a few staple crops like wheat and rice reduced nutritional diversity and resilience.

Moreover, the process of domestication was a two-way street. While humans tamed plants and animals, crops like wheat 'domesticated' humans by compelling them to clear land, sow seeds, and guard fields, creating a cycle of dependency and labor intensification.

Socially, farming led to permanent settlements, private property, and hierarchical structures. These changes introduced inequality, conflict, and new forms of control, contrasting with the more fluid and cooperative bands of foragers.

Understanding these complexities challenges the simplistic notion of progress as linear improvement and invites us to rethink what true well-being means.

By reflecting on this history, we can better appreciate the costs and benefits of our current lifestyles and consider more sustainable paths forward.