"Pathogenesis" - Summary

Kennedy vividly depicts the constant battle between humans and pathogens. He explains how our ancestors' migrations and interactions with different environments exposed them to new diseases, driving the evolution of both the human immune system and the pathogens themselves. This constant back-and-forth struggle shaped our genetic makeup and influenced our susceptibility to diseases we face today.

"Pathogenesis" unveils the profound impact of infectious diseases on the course of history. Kennedy highlights how epidemics toppled empires, for example, how the Plague of Justinian weakened the Byzantine Empire, paving the way for its eventual decline. He argues that understanding the role of disease is crucial for comprehending the rise and fall of civilizations throughout history.

The book doesn't shy away from the future. Kennedy discusses the challenges posed by emerging infectious diseases and antibiotic resistance. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the factors that contribute to disease emergence and the need for global cooperation in combating these threats to public health.