In "Doom: The Politics of Catastrophe," celebrated historian Niall Ferguson embarks on a profound exploration of the human response to calamities across the ages, challenging the notion that modern science and knowledge shield us from the devastation wrought by disasters. From the ashes of Pompeii to the ravages of the Black Death, Ferguson draws a direct line to the contemporary chaos unleashed by a novel virus, laying bare the stark reality that, despite our advancements, our responses remain mired in bureaucracy and mismanagement. With an incisive blend of economics, network science, and history, Ferguson crafts a compelling narrative that not only delves into the specifics of recent global crises but also offers a sweeping theory of disaster that highlights the urgent need for reform in how governments handle catastrophes. "Doom" is not just a recounting of past failures but a clarion call for future action. Ferguson argues convincingly that the recurring pathologies in our responses to disasters—seen in the sluggish and often inept reactions of some of the world's most developed countries to the pandemic—are symptomatic of deeper issues within our political and administrative systems. Through a meticulously researched narrative, Ferguson presents a case for why and how societies must adapt, advocating for a shift towards less bureaucratic, more agile governance frameworks capable of averting the doom of irreversible decline. This book is an essential read for policymakers, historians, and anyone interested in understanding the complex dynamics that govern our response to existential threats, offering both a warning and a roadmap for a more resilient future.