Extra Life: A Short History of Living Longer

Over the past century, average life expectancy in the world has doubled, giving a baby born this year an average of thirty-five more years of life than her great-great grandmother experienced—an “extra life.” What explains this extraordinary phenomenon? Where, when, and how did it occur? What can we expect for the future? Steven Johnson’s book, Extra Life, provides a short history of the scientific and economic developments that have saved hundreds of millions, indeed billions, of lives.  He tells the stories of the developments that have saved billions of lives: toilets and sewers, vaccines, and artificial fertilizer.  And he tells other stories as well: about pasteurization, seat belts and ORT (oral rehydration therapy), among many others. It is a well written introduction to a fascinating history. And one that can be viewed as hopeful!

Reviewed by Mary Jo Bane