How does human history explain what we believe? “ An original, thought provoking study of human history… this unique study into human religious and cultural beliefs is a simply fascinating read from start to finish. ” The Midwest Book Review “ This is one of the most thought provoking and brilliant books on the role religious belief has played in humankind’s evolution that I have read...” Emma Megan _____ Spanning 2.5 million years of human history, A Brief History of the Last 2 ½ Million Years is a bold, sweeping exploration of the three milestones that shape our evolution. The most important of which is religious belief. Anthony O’Keeffe unpacks the causal relationship between the arrival our of species, the birth of ritual and the creation of our gods, tracing a lineage from primitive tool use and early cave art, to organized religion and the philosophical questions that continue to define us today. This book draws together the remarkable discoveries we’ve recently made into our ancient past, to delve into why we believe, and what we believe in. And to explore how those beliefs then shaped the subsequent development of law, morality and the civilizations that followed. Drawing on biological anthropology, philosophy, archaeology and evolutionary science, O’Keeffe builds a compelling case for viewing religious belief as the transformative milestone in human evolution. For readers of philosophy, human history and religion alike, this is a provocative and illuminating read that challenges assumptions and invites renewed reflection on what it means to be human. Get a new perspective on our oldest questions. Original, thought provoking and exceptional A simply fascinating read from start to finish, informed and informative, this unique study into religious and cultural beliefs through the ages is exceptionally 'reader friendly' in organization and presentation. O'Keeffe brings a unique narrative lens to his exploration of prehistory, the origins of belief and their impact on human evolution. - Jim Cox, the Midwest Book Review " This is an informative book and a must-read for anyone interested in human evolution, the development of human culture and the intricate relationship between science and religion. It emphasises how beliefs and religion are integral to our uniquely human capacity for problem-solving, culture and societal organization. " Doreen Chombu " Blending history, philosophy and research from archaeology and evolutionary science, this book is one of the most thought provoking and brilliant books on the role religious belief has played in humankind's evolution that I have ever read. " Emma Megan " This is an ambitious piece of work and, in the hands of a less skilled writer, I'd have been drowning in jargon, (but) O'Keeffe's ability to make what he shares accessible and understandable is brilliant. Very Highly recommended. " Asher Syed This book is really insightful, entertaining and engaging "What makes this book stand out was that it felt like I was reading a story. The writing style is detailed and clear, which makes the topics and concepts easy to follow (and) it gives a strong human-focused view of history, which makes it enjoyable. " Mary Clarke