There are few measures of human progress more astonishing than our increased longevity. This fascinating book is the companion to the new PBS documentary series Extra Life, in which author Steven Johnson explores how all the advances of modern life—the medical breakthroughs, the public health institutions, the rising standards of living—have given us each about twenty thousand extra days on average. How many of those extra twenty thousand days came from vaccines, or the decrease in famines, or seatbelts? What are the forces that now keep us alive longer? Behind each breakthrough lies an inspiring story of cooperative innovation, of brilliant thinkers bolstered by strong systems of public support and collaborative networks. Hardcover, 320 pages.