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Published online by Cambridge University Press: 20 November 2019
Baumard's new explanation of the Industrial Revolution shows that Life History Theory holds great potential. Here, I suggest two related hypotheses for examination. One is that there are long-term roots of slow life traits and preferences. The other is that Life History Theory can explain other aspects of economic modernity such as the Scientific Revolution and bureaucratic states. If so, then Life History Theory offers a way to reconcile several bodies of evidence and lines of explanation into a coherent general account of economic modernity.
Target article
Psychological origins of the Industrial Revolution
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Author response
Psychological origins of the Industrial Revolution: More work is needed!