Another common theory is that of geographical location in relation to climate. Many believe that humans living in less hospitable climates are more likely to develop skills and tools out of necessity. Due to the fact that their climates were less agreeable, in order to survive they were forced to find food, build shelters and make clothing far faster than those living in warmer climates. Another common thought along that thread is that because large amounts of time were spent indoors during the winter months, there was a lot more idle time that could be used toward the invention of technologies. One could turn the argument around with the idea that those living in the warmer climates, since they did not have to work hard to survive, would also have much leisure time to invent. Also, Europeans, prior to a certain time period, did not really invent anything, they merely absorbed the technological advances of Eurasia, as they were in a strategic geographical location. On one last note, of the native cultures, it was only those living in warmer climates that were able to create written language, and were considered the most artistically advanced.
Lastly, Diamond brings up what he calls immediate factors. The factors include guns, infectious disease and tools. While these things were obviously contributing factors in the European conquests, that still does not explain why they had the guns, germs and steel, and other societies did not. The tactic of bringing up ideas others could use to try and refute his information was very successful and also a great introduction into trying to understand what his work is all about. .
So what are the reasons Diamond feels led to Europe's success? I believe that there are three key factors, food, disease and location. Location is of the utmost importance. It dictates what kind of food can be found or grown, what sort of shelter is needed and how much access to other societies can be had.
