Review: The WEIRDest People in the World by Joseph Henrich

What made Western societies so different from the rest of the world? Henrich argues that a key factor was the Church’s Marriage and Family Program (MFP)—especially its ban on cousin marriage. This policy gradually weakened kin-based social structures, fostering individualism, economic competition, and impersonal markets. Over time, these cultural shifts laid the foundation for property rights, democratic institutions, and economic growth. 

Henrich presents compelling evidence showing how regions with longer exposure to these norms developed stronger markets, higher literacy, and more analytical thinking. 

This book clarified many historical puzzles: 

Why some societies emphasize kin loyalty while others value individualism. 

Why economic development took different paths in Europe, China, and the Middle East. 

How culture shapes institutions and long-term prosperity. 

A must-read for those interested in economics, anthropology, and cultural evolution. Have you read it? What are your thoughts?