And now, statistically significant good news

The Associated Press released an astounding report citing three new books by researchers, with lots of statistics, showing that over the past several decades, and the last few centuries, there has been a dramatic reduction in war deaths, domestic violence, racism, rape, murder and other indicators of violent mayhem around the world.

Harvard psychologist Steven Pinker, in one of the books, writes: “The decline of violence may be the most significant and least appreciated development in the history of our species.”

We all know that education is important for our individual advancement and to make better citizens who participate in our democracy. But the researchers also argue with their statistics that, quoting the article: “a smarter, more educated world is becoming more peaceful in several statistically significant ways.”

Our children are getting smarter, says Pinker, citing intelligence testing.

“And that increase in intelligence translates into a kinder, gentler world." Pinker says: “As we get smarter, we try to think up better ways of getting everyone to turn their swords into plow shares at the same time.

“Human life has become more precious than it used to be.”

So now there’s evidence - and lots of it - that education is making our world a more peaceful place.

Another study emphasizes how hard society and peacemakers work, globally to reduce wars, and locally, to reduce violence. Given the mass media’s penchant for using more of its resources and time to report violence around the world than to report the efforts of those working to diminish violence, it’s not hard for people to become discouraged, wondering whether any of the good efforts will make a difference.

These new books, by respected researchers, offer a different story.

They give a new shot of energy, and a boost of hope, to the efforts of people who devote themselves to creating a more peaceful, greener world.

Hallelujah for some good news!