Nam Nguyen's new book explores childhood evolution from ancient times to AI

Montreal, September 1, 2026 — In a groundbreaking new book, KIN: Childhood, Parenting, and the Making of Civilization, author Nam Nguyen delves into the evolution of childhood from ancient societies to the digital age, raising questions about what the age of artificial intelligence might hold for future generations.

Nguyen’s work traces the transformation of childhood through various historical eras, highlighting how each epoch has redefined the concept of childhood around its unique institutions, technologies, and societal expectations. The book explores how children have been raised as helpers, heirs, believers, workers, students, citizens, consumers, and digital natives, reflecting the changing needs and values of different civilizations.

“Childhood has never been a fixed experience. Each era has reshaped it to fit its own needs and expectations,” Nguyen stated. “The question now is what kind of childhood artificial intelligence will create.”

KIN spans from early human communities through the agricultural, religious, imperial, industrial, and consumer eras, to the digital age and artificial intelligence. Unlike traditional parenting guides, the book places childhood within the broader context of how civilizations evolve and adapt.

“History is usually told through wars, rulers, inventions, and institutions,” Nguyen explained. “But long before children become citizens, workers, leaders, or voters, they are being shaped by the world around them. Putting childhood back into the story changes how we see civilization.”

Nguyen’s interdisciplinary background in psychology, neuroscience, business strategy, and governance provides a unique lens for his analysis. Before his current work, he conducted neuroscience research on visual attention and cognition at the Université de Montréal.

The book has garnered significant recognition, with Kirkus Reviews calling it “a wide-ranging and thought-provoking study of childrearing throughout human history.” BookLife Reviews, which named KIN an Editor’s Pick, described it as “thoughtful and unapologetically grand” and highlighted “a compelling lens through which to view humanity’s history and uncertain future.”

Foreword Clarion Reviews also praised the book, noting its “compelling argument” and “refreshing depth of original thinking.”

KIN: Childhood, Parenting, and the Making of Civilization is now available in both print and digital formats. Nguyen is available for interviews on the evolution of childhood, parenting across history, children and artificial intelligence, and the institutions shaping the next generation.