Advance praise: 'This is an outstandingly well written text, clear and accessible but without oversimplification. Given recent assaults on the human/non-human distinction, Sayer's sturdy defence of what is distinctively human in our liability to suffering and our ability to thrive is more than welcome.' Margaret S. Archer, University of Warwick 'This is a fascinating book. It challenges disciplinary boundaries, and encourages us to rethink the way we explain human behaviour and construct social theories.' Ingrid Robeyns, Erasmus University Rotterdam.