Jared Diamond's "Profits, Prophets, Coaches and Kings" Reviewed

Jared Diamond's new book, "Profits, Prophets, Coaches and Kings," explores the extent to which individual actions and talents influence the course of history. The book introduces a concept Diamond terms "the Hamlet test" as a framework for evaluating whether prominent historical figures were truly indispensable or if others could have achieved similar outcomes. Diamond uses William Shakespeare as a primary example, arguing that the unique quality of plays like Hamlet indicates Shakespeare's singular genius, suggesting that no other Elizabethan playwright could have produced such masterpieces had Shakespeare not existed. He contrasts Shakespeare with contemporaries such as Ben Jonson, Christopher Marlowe, and John Webster, asserting that their works, while notable, do not reach the same level of artistic achievement.

However, the review highlights a significant critique of Diamond's "Hamlet test," pointing out the historical context of Christopher Marlowe's life and career. Marlowe died at the young age of 29 in 1593, having already penned influential plays like "Doctor Faustus" and "Tamburlaine." Furthermore, scholarly consensus now suggests Marlowe may have co-written parts of the Henry VI trilogy with Shakespeare. Shakespeare's major tragedies, including Hamlet, were composed a decade after Marlowe's death. This timeline raises questions about Diamond's assertion, as it is plausible that Marlowe, had he lived longer, might have rivaled or surpassed Shakespeare's creative output. The review notes that many scholars believe Marlowe's substantial influence was crucial to the development of Shakespeare's masterpieces, directly challenging the premise of the "Hamlet test."

The book's central thesis, that individuals can dramatically alter historical trajectories, is examined through various case studies. Diamond likely delves into examples from different fields, such as business, religion, and leadership, to support his argument. The review implies that while Diamond presents compelling narratives, the book's methodology, particularly the "Hamlet test," faces substantial challenges based on historical evidence and scholarly interpretation. The critique suggests that Diamond's analysis may oversimplify the complex interplay of individual agency, societal forces, and historical contingency. The review, published on September 2, 2026, by The Guardian, questions the book's definitive conclusions regarding the impact of singular individuals on historical events, suggesting a need for a more nuanced understanding of causality in history. The book's title itself, "Profits, Prophets, Coaches and Kings," hints at the diverse roles individuals play, from economic leaders and religious figures to political rulers and influential mentors, all of whom Diamond likely analyzes for their historical significance. The review, however, indicates that the book's examination of these roles may be flawed by its reliance on potentially oversimplified analytical tools.