The Next Apocalypse: The Art and Science of Survival

Begley, an archeologist, anthropologist, and wilderness survival teacher, analyzes how social paradigms of collapse match up with selected historical examples. Using the end of the Mayan civilization and the end of the Western Roman Empire as primary examples, Begley digs into cultural apocalyptic fantasies (as reflected in TV, movies, books, and survivalist subcultures) to see how such concepts compare to actual apocalyptic events. This sociological and scientific exploration is a quiet surprise of a book that will make readers question assumptions about civilizational collapse and apocalypses in general. Begley’s analysis and logical generalities are a refreshing antidote to much of the hype that surrounds the topic. Finally, Begley offers some expert advice about what future apocalyptic events might be like and how humans might survive. The book’s strength comes not only from Begley’s expertise but also his ability to turn counterintuitive arguments into a thought-provoking reflection on the subject.