Jared Diamond, the bestselling biogeographer, has responded to critics of his work. Diamond, known for his Pulitzer Prize-winning book Guns, Germs and Steel, has often been accused of environmental determinism. Critics claim he oversimplifies the complex web of historical causation by attributing the rise and fall of civilisations primarily to geographical and environmental factors. Diamond rejects these accusations, arguing that his work considers a wide range of factors, including cultural and individual variation. He believes that his critics have misunderstood his arguments or have not read his books thoroughly.
Diamond’s latest book, The World Until Yesterday, explores what we can learn from traditional societies. However, it has been criticised for its portrayal of tribal people. Survival International accused Diamond of portraying tribal societies as violent and primitive. Diamond refutes this, stating that he has been careful to avoid generalising about tribal societies, and that he has highlighted their strengths as well as their weaknesses. He adds that his aim is to learn from these societies, not to judge them.
Despite the criticism, Diamond’s work continues to be popular and influential. His books have been translated into dozens of languages and have sold millions of copies worldwide. He remains committed to his research and writing, aiming to provoke thought and stimulate conversation about the world’s big issues.
Go to source article: http://www.theguardian.com/books/2014/oct/24/jared-diamond-bestselling-biogeographer-answers-critics