A conversation with celebrated American scholar Dr. Jared Diamond, a professor of geography at the University of California, Los Angeles. Dr. Diamond is renowned for his work in the fields of evolutionary biology, geography and physiology.

In his Pulitzer Prize-winning book Guns, Germs, and Steel, Professor Diamond explored how geographical and environmental factors shaped our modern civilization. His latest book, The World Until Yesterday, examines small, traditional, tribal societies and what Western civilization might be able to learn from them.

Why do some societies rise while others fall? What can Western civilization learn from the collective history of human societies, large and small?

Featuring:

Dr. Jared Diamond, Professor of Geography, UCLA & Author, Guns, Germs, & Steel

Dr. Jared Diamond began his scientific career in physiology and expanded into evolutionary biology and biogeography. He has been elected to the National Academy of Sciences, the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, and the American Philosophical society. Among his many awards are the National Medal of Science, the Tyler Prize for Environmental Achievement, and more. Read more.

Moderator:

Ms. Dawn Nakagawa, Executive Vice President, Berggruen Institute

Ms. Nakagawa is the Executive Vice President of the Berggruen Institute. In this position, she is responsible for building the institution to become an organization of global reach and influence. Prior to joining the Berggruen Institute, Dawn was the Executive Vice President of the Pacific Council on International Policy. Read more.