Extra Life

Archival Summary & Scope

“A useful reminder of the role of modern science in fundamentally transforming all of our lives.” —President Barack Obama. “An important book.” —Steven Pinker, *The New York Times Book Review*.

Bestselling author Steven Johnson’s *Extra Life* tells the astonishing story of how humanity doubled its average life expectancy—from roughly forty to over eighty years—in just one century. This monumental achievement, unparalleled in history, resulted from a tapestry of cooperative innovations, brilliant scientific breakthroughs, public health initiatives, and dedicated activism.

Johnson explores the unsung heroes and collaborative networks behind advancements ranging from vaccines and sanitation to improved nutrition and safety measures. While celebrating this progress, the book also confronts persistent disparities and emerging threats, including lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic, asking how we can protect and extend this 'extra life' for everyone. A powerful study of societal change, *Extra Life* illuminates the enduring power of common goals and public resources in a sweeping narrative of a revolution with immense personal and global consequences.