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The Lost Civilization Enigma: A New Inquiry Into the Existence of Ancient Cities, Cultures, and Peoples Who Pre-Date Recorded History
Are history books giving us the whole story? Or is civilization far more complex and for older than we have been taught?
Our school textbooks barely mention the 6,000-year-old Sumerian civilization, yet the latest archaeological findings at sites such as Jericho and, most recently, Gobekli Tepe in Turkey have been dated to 10,000 BC.
Civilization goes back at least another 10,000 years, if we are willing to believe what our ancestors themselves claimed.
The Lost Civilization Enigma reveals the truth
Our school textbooks barely mention the 6,000-year-old Sumerian civilization, yet the latest archaeological findings at sites such as Jericho and, most recently, Gobekli Tepe in Turkey have been dated to 10,000 BC.
Civilization goes back at least another 10,000 years, if we are willing to believe what our ancestors themselves claimed.
The Lost Civilization Enigma reveals the truth
321 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 1, 2012
90 people are currently reading
611 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
September 14, 2024
For a moment I was tempted to give this two stars because in its first part, Coppens appeared to be focusing on the at times viciously vindictive world of archaeology, where you can find numerous examples of rivalries and blinkered perspectives that do suppress new finds and new interpretations of old finds. It's a problem found in all fields (it's a subplot in Le Guin's The Dispossessed even).
But then he has to drag Atlantis into the mix and he starts quoting Graham Hancock and Michael Cremo...
At least aliens don't figure into things.
And he gets so close to legitimate criticism. For example, he discusses evidence for a megalithic culture that flourished in France but then appears to have collapsed around 1200 BCE. Anyone familiar with the history of that period will recognize the proximity of that date to 1177 BCE, the anchor date for when the Bronze Age came to an end and the civilizations of the Eastern Mediterranean and Mesopotamia collapsed (with the exception of Egypt). Is it not likely that - had such a culture existed - its collapse could be linked to the general Bronze Age collapse? Could its people have played a role in the Sea Peoples migrations? Rather than link it to the most recent research, however, Coppens speculates on its ties to "civilizations" from the last Ice Age.
And, like many books of this ilk, the author is arguing with straw men. Figures from the 19th and early 20th centuries whose theories and assumptions have been challenged (and often overturned) in the last few generations.
It was an interesting diversion for my morning walks but Zecharia Sitchin's Earth Chronicles remains the unchallenged champion (IMO) when it comes to pseudo-scientific claptrap. Sitchin is a loon but it's so much fun to read about the travails of the Annunaki.
But then he has to drag Atlantis into the mix and he starts quoting Graham Hancock and Michael Cremo...
At least aliens don't figure into things.
And he gets so close to legitimate criticism. For example, he discusses evidence for a megalithic culture that flourished in France but then appears to have collapsed around 1200 BCE. Anyone familiar with the history of that period will recognize the proximity of that date to 1177 BCE, the anchor date for when the Bronze Age came to an end and the civilizations of the Eastern Mediterranean and Mesopotamia collapsed (with the exception of Egypt). Is it not likely that - had such a culture existed - its collapse could be linked to the general Bronze Age collapse? Could its people have played a role in the Sea Peoples migrations? Rather than link it to the most recent research, however, Coppens speculates on its ties to "civilizations" from the last Ice Age.
And, like many books of this ilk, the author is arguing with straw men. Figures from the 19th and early 20th centuries whose theories and assumptions have been challenged (and often overturned) in the last few generations.
It was an interesting diversion for my morning walks but Zecharia Sitchin's Earth Chronicles remains the unchallenged champion (IMO) when it comes to pseudo-scientific claptrap. Sitchin is a loon but it's so much fun to read about the travails of the Annunaki.
April 18, 2013
I'll start with the best things I can say about Coppens' new book: he provides an interesting collection of stories covering many topics of archeological interest. These topics are supportive of the idea that human civilization existed earlier than we were generally taught to believe. The author covers many relatively unknown archeological enigmas in detail, starting with Chapter One's focus on the controversy over Neolithic relics and remains at Glozel, France in 1927. Peruvian pyramids at Caral, an astronomical interpretation of the Greek story of the Iliad, and the idea that copper mining in Michigan and the Bronze Age in Europe both ended around 1200 B.C. were also interesting topics not often covered by others. The book provides a great introduction to many topics that could be considered ancient mysteries, at a level I would think is perfect for curious but relatively uneducated teenagers.
Other comments will not be so supportive of the book's quality. While I agree that many sites support the idea that out civilization is at least 12,000 years old, Coppens writes that some "tools, objects, and legends - are tens of thousands - even millions of years old." (p. 10) He dwells on the carvings of the "Ica stones" for a long time, even though he knows and admits that these carvings of humans riding dinosaurs are "fake" and "controversial." He quotes Cremo and Thompson supportively when they write that "anatomically modern humans have coexisted with other primates for tens of millions of years." (p. 56) I felt that anything was worked into this book if it sounded interesting to Coppens, whether anyone could take it seriously or not.
He dives into some odd topics that make no sense and are not even related to the theme of the book, such as the claim that the American Secret Service in the 1920s was afraid of a Chinese invasion of the United States. (p. 165) (China at that point was too divided and weak to protect itself from the Russian dismemberment of Mongolia or the Japanese invasion that came in the 1930s) Coppens ends the book focusing on topics like Atlantis and Mu, Shambala in Tibet, finding the geographical center of Britain and Ireland during historical times, and Shamanic visions and near death experiences.
On most pages the writing was adequate but - sometimes - for no apparent reason - the author linked many phrases - together - with hyphens - or commas - in very long run-ons. Sometimes the sentences would not qualify as sentences. There were enough instances of distorted grammar to make a middle school English teacher wince... and make a reader a bit distracted. I only mention it because I've never seen an author do this so much. It really needed more editing.
But overall my issue with the book is that it treats all "interesting" topics almost equally, whether they merit intelligent consideration (like Middle Eastern civilization back to about 10,000 B.C.) or they claim that humans were making artifacts millions, or even tens or hundreds of millions of years ago. I judge many such things to merit ridicule; Coppens judged them worthy of lengthy commentary, and unfortunately many poorly educated readers will take them seriously.
If you're 13 years old and have never heard of Zahi Hawass, Caral, or Gobekli Tepe but are interested in the idea that the true, really ancient history just isn't taught to us, you'll love this book. If you've read books by Graham Hancock or Robert Schoch or John Michell and appreciated them, you would probably be disappointed.
Other comments will not be so supportive of the book's quality. While I agree that many sites support the idea that out civilization is at least 12,000 years old, Coppens writes that some "tools, objects, and legends - are tens of thousands - even millions of years old." (p. 10) He dwells on the carvings of the "Ica stones" for a long time, even though he knows and admits that these carvings of humans riding dinosaurs are "fake" and "controversial." He quotes Cremo and Thompson supportively when they write that "anatomically modern humans have coexisted with other primates for tens of millions of years." (p. 56) I felt that anything was worked into this book if it sounded interesting to Coppens, whether anyone could take it seriously or not.
He dives into some odd topics that make no sense and are not even related to the theme of the book, such as the claim that the American Secret Service in the 1920s was afraid of a Chinese invasion of the United States. (p. 165) (China at that point was too divided and weak to protect itself from the Russian dismemberment of Mongolia or the Japanese invasion that came in the 1930s) Coppens ends the book focusing on topics like Atlantis and Mu, Shambala in Tibet, finding the geographical center of Britain and Ireland during historical times, and Shamanic visions and near death experiences.
On most pages the writing was adequate but - sometimes - for no apparent reason - the author linked many phrases - together - with hyphens - or commas - in very long run-ons. Sometimes the sentences would not qualify as sentences. There were enough instances of distorted grammar to make a middle school English teacher wince... and make a reader a bit distracted. I only mention it because I've never seen an author do this so much. It really needed more editing.
But overall my issue with the book is that it treats all "interesting" topics almost equally, whether they merit intelligent consideration (like Middle Eastern civilization back to about 10,000 B.C.) or they claim that humans were making artifacts millions, or even tens or hundreds of millions of years ago. I judge many such things to merit ridicule; Coppens judged them worthy of lengthy commentary, and unfortunately many poorly educated readers will take them seriously.
If you're 13 years old and have never heard of Zahi Hawass, Caral, or Gobekli Tepe but are interested in the idea that the true, really ancient history just isn't taught to us, you'll love this book. If you've read books by Graham Hancock or Robert Schoch or John Michell and appreciated them, you would probably be disappointed.
April 30, 2013
This would be a really enjoyable read had it been written by another person. Someone with maybe a bit of tact and humility and writing talent and capacity for objectivity. In a way this is very strange to review a book where the major problem with it was its author, but here goes. I'm very interested in history, particularly ancient history, alternative or not, it's all pretty fascinating to me. From that perspective the book was obviously well researched and quite educational and interesting. If Coppens had just stuck to the facts, it would totally work. But he didn't. He has to constantly insert himself into the narrative, often offending fellow scientists for daring DARING to disagree with him. He comes across as being snide and overly self important (pretty sure he wrote his own bio as its a shining example of an overly inflated ego without being clever and frequently veers off into new aginess instead of sticking with history. So, while this book was a nice edition with lots of information and photos, the author's ego has prevented it from being a genuinely good reading experience.
January 18, 2013
First, RIP, Philip. I am a big fan of Filip and his work, and the research his put into this book was extensive and even overwhelming at times. (that is a good thing) It's so sad to see so many findings brushed off by science and the dogma in science today. Clearly civilization is much older than we have been led to believe all these years. I can only hope with work of Filip and his colleagues will reach a larger audience so we may all begin to learn our true history. Thank you, Filip, for your work, for being an advocate and for keeping history alive!
May 17, 2020
Perhaps the true enigma in this book is why so many archaeologists refuse to consider anything outside their narrow little boxes. History is obviously set in stone - just like the Earth is flat and the Christian God created the world in 4004 B.C. Many school textbooks barely mention the 6000-year-old Sumarian civilization so the discoveries at Gobekli Tepe and Catal Hoyuk in Turkey and the city of Jericho are nearly completely ignored.
Coppens - after investigating historical and archaeological records and reports - brings to the readers attention substantial evidence that there are cultures far older than First Dynasty Egypt and Mesopotamia. That civilization does not - or rather should not - be defined by the ability to write and being able to leave those writings behind. The builders of Stonehenge and other megalithic monuments left no writing but there are certainly impressive examples of their knowledge in astronomy and geometry.
Some of the cultures and artifacts he mentions, most people would be completely unfamiliar with.
In North America, there is:
* Isle Royal, Michigan copper mines. Hundreds of tons of copper were mined and removed to an unknown location. Tools were left behind when the miners left in 1200 B.C. So where is all that copper? Suspicions lead back to Europe where it was combined with Cornish tin to made Bronze. Once the tin mines were exhausted and the Iron Age started (in 1200 B.C.), the mines in Michigan were likely abandoned. But no one is sure.
* Burrows Cave, Illinois was a cavern with ancient burials including what was reported to be a golden sarcophagi. Burrows never revealed the location of the cave and supposedly dynamited the entrance after years of controversy.
* The Bimini Crystal discovered off the coast of the Bahamas, in a underwater construction found in 1970. There has been no confirmation of any underwater construction.
South America
* Macchu Picchu in Peru was discovered in the early 20th century while explorers were looking for the last Incan refuge.
* Paititi the lost city that was a last refuge of the Incan rulers and the Inkarri, founder of Cusco. Supposedly in in the area where Peru, Bolivia, and Brazil meet and even more well known as the destination of Percy Fawcett's lost expedition.
* Akakor is supposedly an underground civilization beneath Peru, Bolivia and Brazil. Although many lost civilizations have been discovered in the Amazon basin as logging continues, there has been no proof of this one.
* Caral, Peru is the site of several pyramids built before those on the Giza Plateau.
* The Ica Stones found in Peru which are artifacts notable depicting humans interacting with dinosaur-like creatures. Some are acknowledged to be fakes but there are about 4,000 which are still in doubt.
* El Dorado, the legendary leader of a tribe that covered himself in gold dust was searched for in Ecuador, Peru and Bolivia. Many have searched but nothing found could be labeled as the "City of Gold.'
Europe
* Clear crystal lenses discovered across Europe and northern Africa which could easily been used as a telescope. Of course, it was not possible because the translators felt the original ancient Greek records of these crystal lenses was 'obviously' corrupted so they changed the words to 'tubes'. Seriously?
* The Antikythera device which could not have been ancient - no matter how encrusted and it's supposed discovery in the underwater ruins of a ship - because ancient Greeks did not have the technique and ability to create the sophisticated gearing mechanisms.
* Glozel, France had engraved stones from a variety of ancient time periods but a number seemed to be thousands of years old and to this day, a site of extraordinary controversy.
* Hyperborea was the mythical home of the north winds as far as the Greeks were concerned. And some of those Greek texts point to the Scottish Hebridean Isle of Lewis. Showing that ancient Greeks explored far more than the Aegean Sea and the nearby Mediterranean.
* The volcanic eruption on Thera/Santorini supposedly devastated the Minoan civilization, contributing to its demise. Sometimes identified as Atlantis, there has been no hard evidence and the island would have been far too small to meet the distances reported in Plato's histories.
* The French towns of Sens and Alesia which are the center of a prehistoric network of roads which dates back to the last Ice Age.
* Visoko in Bosnia-Herzegovia, the so-called Bosnian pyramids and the focus of some of the largest archaeological excavations in the world. There are also extensive tunnels that connect the pyramids although several have collapsed or have been declared unsafe. When the dirt and plantlife is removed from these pyramids, a thick layer of obviously unnatural material coats the entire structure. Investigations of the coating have declared it either manmade or one of the oddest geological formations on Earth. This is also the one where a noted critic took a taxi ride around the town and declared the pyramids natural formations. So called 'science by taxi.'
Oddly enough this site/excavation as been declared forbidden for scientists to work on or comment up. Rather strange.
Africa has the Egyptian Hall of Records beneath the Giza Plateau. It is curious that a tunnel being explored on TV by director Hawass was completely denied existance a number of years later by the same man. Also, why the Egyptian antiquities office drilled down to make sure that the water beneath the Sphinx was pumped out. Thousands of gallons of it. Either there is a direct feeder from the Nile or there is a large cavern that needs to be emptied. A very large room.
* And the prehistoric art in the Tassili n'Ajjer mountains of Algeria that show scenery and animals from when the Sahara was a lush grassland. Geologists place the Sahara green between 14,000 and 5,000 years ago.
* And lest we forget the Ark of the Covenant that not only enable communicating with God but could part the water of a river. Lost millennia ago
Asia
* Gobekli Tepe in Turkey is considered the oldest religious site in the world even as excavations continue to uncover more and more extensive complexes.
* Shambhala, the mythical kingdom hidden somewhere around the TIbetan Plateau.
* Xi'an, China with it's own pyramids likely built by the earliest of the Chinese emperors, have only been acknowledged in the past few decades and most are awaiting further exploration. This is also where the Terracotta Army was discovered.
* Troy in Turkey which doesn't really fit all of Homer's account details which makes many feel that the actual Troy of Homer was elsewhere.
* The various mummies of Urumchi, Gobi Desert, Mongolia, ranging in age from 2000 - 4000 years old and of which DNA analysis confirms at least some were Celts. A culture and civilization of Causasians/Europeans that existed centuries before the the Mongolian peoples started expanding to the west.
And of course, there is Atlantis and the massive lost Mu.
He also has a short piece about Michael Cremo and Richard Thompson's book Forbidden Archaeology: The Hidden history of the Human Race which unfortunately, shows that many facts that contradict settled views of human culture and civilization are being ignored, declared fabrications and even show examples of scientists planting artifacts in order to get the results desired.
It's an interesting look at our prehistory and some mysteries that need to be explored further...if only some scientists would remove the blinders and so some earnest investigation instead of declaring anything that didn't fit into those small boxes.
2020-098
Coppens - after investigating historical and archaeological records and reports - brings to the readers attention substantial evidence that there are cultures far older than First Dynasty Egypt and Mesopotamia. That civilization does not - or rather should not - be defined by the ability to write and being able to leave those writings behind. The builders of Stonehenge and other megalithic monuments left no writing but there are certainly impressive examples of their knowledge in astronomy and geometry.
Some of the cultures and artifacts he mentions, most people would be completely unfamiliar with.
In North America, there is:
* Isle Royal, Michigan copper mines. Hundreds of tons of copper were mined and removed to an unknown location. Tools were left behind when the miners left in 1200 B.C. So where is all that copper? Suspicions lead back to Europe where it was combined with Cornish tin to made Bronze. Once the tin mines were exhausted and the Iron Age started (in 1200 B.C.), the mines in Michigan were likely abandoned. But no one is sure.
* Burrows Cave, Illinois was a cavern with ancient burials including what was reported to be a golden sarcophagi. Burrows never revealed the location of the cave and supposedly dynamited the entrance after years of controversy.
* The Bimini Crystal discovered off the coast of the Bahamas, in a underwater construction found in 1970. There has been no confirmation of any underwater construction.
South America
* Macchu Picchu in Peru was discovered in the early 20th century while explorers were looking for the last Incan refuge.
* Paititi the lost city that was a last refuge of the Incan rulers and the Inkarri, founder of Cusco. Supposedly in in the area where Peru, Bolivia, and Brazil meet and even more well known as the destination of Percy Fawcett's lost expedition.
* Akakor is supposedly an underground civilization beneath Peru, Bolivia and Brazil. Although many lost civilizations have been discovered in the Amazon basin as logging continues, there has been no proof of this one.
* Caral, Peru is the site of several pyramids built before those on the Giza Plateau.
* The Ica Stones found in Peru which are artifacts notable depicting humans interacting with dinosaur-like creatures. Some are acknowledged to be fakes but there are about 4,000 which are still in doubt.
* El Dorado, the legendary leader of a tribe that covered himself in gold dust was searched for in Ecuador, Peru and Bolivia. Many have searched but nothing found could be labeled as the "City of Gold.'
Europe
* Clear crystal lenses discovered across Europe and northern Africa which could easily been used as a telescope. Of course, it was not possible because the translators felt the original ancient Greek records of these crystal lenses was 'obviously' corrupted so they changed the words to 'tubes'. Seriously?
* The Antikythera device which could not have been ancient - no matter how encrusted and it's supposed discovery in the underwater ruins of a ship - because ancient Greeks did not have the technique and ability to create the sophisticated gearing mechanisms.
* Glozel, France had engraved stones from a variety of ancient time periods but a number seemed to be thousands of years old and to this day, a site of extraordinary controversy.
* Hyperborea was the mythical home of the north winds as far as the Greeks were concerned. And some of those Greek texts point to the Scottish Hebridean Isle of Lewis. Showing that ancient Greeks explored far more than the Aegean Sea and the nearby Mediterranean.
* The volcanic eruption on Thera/Santorini supposedly devastated the Minoan civilization, contributing to its demise. Sometimes identified as Atlantis, there has been no hard evidence and the island would have been far too small to meet the distances reported in Plato's histories.
* The French towns of Sens and Alesia which are the center of a prehistoric network of roads which dates back to the last Ice Age.
* Visoko in Bosnia-Herzegovia, the so-called Bosnian pyramids and the focus of some of the largest archaeological excavations in the world. There are also extensive tunnels that connect the pyramids although several have collapsed or have been declared unsafe. When the dirt and plantlife is removed from these pyramids, a thick layer of obviously unnatural material coats the entire structure. Investigations of the coating have declared it either manmade or one of the oddest geological formations on Earth. This is also the one where a noted critic took a taxi ride around the town and declared the pyramids natural formations. So called 'science by taxi.'
Oddly enough this site/excavation as been declared forbidden for scientists to work on or comment up. Rather strange.
Africa has the Egyptian Hall of Records beneath the Giza Plateau. It is curious that a tunnel being explored on TV by director Hawass was completely denied existance a number of years later by the same man. Also, why the Egyptian antiquities office drilled down to make sure that the water beneath the Sphinx was pumped out. Thousands of gallons of it. Either there is a direct feeder from the Nile or there is a large cavern that needs to be emptied. A very large room.
* And the prehistoric art in the Tassili n'Ajjer mountains of Algeria that show scenery and animals from when the Sahara was a lush grassland. Geologists place the Sahara green between 14,000 and 5,000 years ago.
* And lest we forget the Ark of the Covenant that not only enable communicating with God but could part the water of a river. Lost millennia ago
Asia
* Gobekli Tepe in Turkey is considered the oldest religious site in the world even as excavations continue to uncover more and more extensive complexes.
* Shambhala, the mythical kingdom hidden somewhere around the TIbetan Plateau.
* Xi'an, China with it's own pyramids likely built by the earliest of the Chinese emperors, have only been acknowledged in the past few decades and most are awaiting further exploration. This is also where the Terracotta Army was discovered.
* Troy in Turkey which doesn't really fit all of Homer's account details which makes many feel that the actual Troy of Homer was elsewhere.
* The various mummies of Urumchi, Gobi Desert, Mongolia, ranging in age from 2000 - 4000 years old and of which DNA analysis confirms at least some were Celts. A culture and civilization of Causasians/Europeans that existed centuries before the the Mongolian peoples started expanding to the west.
And of course, there is Atlantis and the massive lost Mu.
He also has a short piece about Michael Cremo and Richard Thompson's book Forbidden Archaeology: The Hidden history of the Human Race which unfortunately, shows that many facts that contradict settled views of human culture and civilization are being ignored, declared fabrications and even show examples of scientists planting artifacts in order to get the results desired.
It's an interesting look at our prehistory and some mysteries that need to be explored further...if only some scientists would remove the blinders and so some earnest investigation instead of declaring anything that didn't fit into those small boxes.
2020-098
March 2, 2024
"The Lost Civilization Enigma" is a thought-provoking audiobook written by Philip Coppens and narrated by David Drummond. The book delves into the mysteries of ancient civilizations, exploring the evidence for advanced technologies and knowledge that have been lost to history.
Coppens' writing is engaging and easy to follow, making complex ideas accessible to a wide audience. He takes the listener on a journey through ancient ruins, myths, and legends, piecing together a picture of a forgotten past that challenges conventional wisdom about the origins of civilization.
The narration by David Drummond is clear and engaging, bringing the material to life in an engaging way. His delivery is well-paced and easy to follow, making the complex ideas accessible to a wide audience.
One of the strengths of the book is its ability to challenge conventional wisdom about the origins of civilization. Coppens presents compelling evidence for the existence of advanced technologies and knowledge in ancient times, such as the use of electricity and advanced engineering techniques.
The book also explores the possibility of lost civilizations, such as Atlantis, and the evidence for their existence. Coppens makes a compelling case for the existence of advanced cultures that have been forgotten or suppressed by mainstream history.
Overall, "The Lost Civilization Enigma" is a fascinating and thought-provoking audiobook that challenges conventional wisdom about the origins of civilization. It offers a fresh perspective on the past, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in history, archaeology, or the unexplained.
Pros:
* Engaging and accessible writing style.
* Challenges conventional wisdom about the origins of civilization.
* Presents compelling evidence for advanced technologies and knowledge in ancient times.
Cons:
* Some theories may be controversial or speculative.
* Some sections may be dense with information.
Coppens' writing is engaging and easy to follow, making complex ideas accessible to a wide audience. He takes the listener on a journey through ancient ruins, myths, and legends, piecing together a picture of a forgotten past that challenges conventional wisdom about the origins of civilization.
The narration by David Drummond is clear and engaging, bringing the material to life in an engaging way. His delivery is well-paced and easy to follow, making the complex ideas accessible to a wide audience.
One of the strengths of the book is its ability to challenge conventional wisdom about the origins of civilization. Coppens presents compelling evidence for the existence of advanced technologies and knowledge in ancient times, such as the use of electricity and advanced engineering techniques.
The book also explores the possibility of lost civilizations, such as Atlantis, and the evidence for their existence. Coppens makes a compelling case for the existence of advanced cultures that have been forgotten or suppressed by mainstream history.
Overall, "The Lost Civilization Enigma" is a fascinating and thought-provoking audiobook that challenges conventional wisdom about the origins of civilization. It offers a fresh perspective on the past, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in history, archaeology, or the unexplained.
Pros:
* Engaging and accessible writing style.
* Challenges conventional wisdom about the origins of civilization.
* Presents compelling evidence for advanced technologies and knowledge in ancient times.
Cons:
* Some theories may be controversial or speculative.
* Some sections may be dense with information.
February 27, 2024
Coppen's is most renowned for his work on the show "Ancient Aliens", but this book leaves the extraterrestrials out and focusses more on the megalithic and Egyptological side of "alternative history" hypothesis- things like the apparently missing copper in mines in America, cave art, Bosnian pyramids, evidence for Atlantis etc. Its not really so much an introduction to the topic (although it could serve as one), but gets moreso into the details of people in mainstream science who refused accept evidence, and actively created forgeries and coverups to deliberately counter act against tangible evidence to reinforce mainstream narratives.
September 6, 2016
While the contents of this book will likely be unfamiliar to most readers, whether or not they are hostile to the author's general worldview and historical beliefs in advanced ancient societies with a certain degree of occult knowledge, the contents of this book are familiar to those interested in more conventional studies of archaeology as well [1]. Although there is a great deal to find fault of in this book, the author makes a point that archaeologists and historians and scientists have a strong desire to protect their own reputations and their own paradigms and that they have been slow to accept the record of early advanced civilizations around the world. So far as it goes, this is a valid point and ought to be clearly understood by the reader, especially the reader who shares with the author an interest in ancient history and a certain willingness to listen to and consider unconventional theories about ancient history. For those readers that do meet these qualifications, this book, at about 300 pages or so, makes for a fascinating and thought-provoking read even if the reader does not agree with all of the conclusions of the author.
The author spends a great deal of time in this book moving around from civilization to civilization, discussing the works of unconventional, even outlaw archaeologists, amateurs and otherwise, who have sought to uncover ancient ruins and solve longstanding historical mysteries. The author begins by discussing concerns about a new inquisition against research that disagrees with the existing view. Then the author spends some time talking about lost civilizations of the Old World, especially Old Europe and the inhabitants of the Tarim Basin and the pyramid, and then the lost civilizations of the New World, like those in the Amazon river basin and the Peruvian desert. The author then discusses various ideas about Atlantis and the idea of prehistoric genius as well as a view of civilization, albeit without surviving writing, going back many thousands of years, closing with an idea that the world is full of lost civilizations waiting to be found, if anyone will dare to look and accept what they find. The book has has an extensive bibliography for those readers who want to follow the author's lead and dig into research about unusual and long-forgotten areas of ancient history. There are, thankfully, many books a good deal more sober-minded than this one that corroborate the author's comments in large part.
Although this book can be accepted as a witness and an encouragement for future reading among those interested in ancient history, accepting the author's claims entirely is a doubtful proposition, not merely because the author has some obvious axes to grind, but also because this book represents an occult view of history, even if it is critical of some of the notable figures of occult studies, like Edgar Cayce. What this book offers is a view of ancient paradise that is not Eden, but rather Atlantis, and where it is ancient occult knowledge and not biblical knowledge that is regarded as the source of wisdom for people. It is ultimately a matter of some delicacy as to whether this book is given full or merely partial credence, as the book has a clear perspective that is not strictly historical, but ultimately religious in nature. As someone who has a different religious worldview than the author's, I can recognize where his comes from and share his willingness to accept religious truth, but differ with him as to where that truth may be found as the source of genuine knowledge about history.
[1] See, for example:
https://edgeinducedcohesion.wordpress...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.wordpress...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.wordpress...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.wordpress...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.wordpress...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.wordpress...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.wordpress...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.wordpress...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.wordpress...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.wordpress...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.wordpress...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.wordpress...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.wordpress...
The author spends a great deal of time in this book moving around from civilization to civilization, discussing the works of unconventional, even outlaw archaeologists, amateurs and otherwise, who have sought to uncover ancient ruins and solve longstanding historical mysteries. The author begins by discussing concerns about a new inquisition against research that disagrees with the existing view. Then the author spends some time talking about lost civilizations of the Old World, especially Old Europe and the inhabitants of the Tarim Basin and the pyramid, and then the lost civilizations of the New World, like those in the Amazon river basin and the Peruvian desert. The author then discusses various ideas about Atlantis and the idea of prehistoric genius as well as a view of civilization, albeit without surviving writing, going back many thousands of years, closing with an idea that the world is full of lost civilizations waiting to be found, if anyone will dare to look and accept what they find. The book has has an extensive bibliography for those readers who want to follow the author's lead and dig into research about unusual and long-forgotten areas of ancient history. There are, thankfully, many books a good deal more sober-minded than this one that corroborate the author's comments in large part.
Although this book can be accepted as a witness and an encouragement for future reading among those interested in ancient history, accepting the author's claims entirely is a doubtful proposition, not merely because the author has some obvious axes to grind, but also because this book represents an occult view of history, even if it is critical of some of the notable figures of occult studies, like Edgar Cayce. What this book offers is a view of ancient paradise that is not Eden, but rather Atlantis, and where it is ancient occult knowledge and not biblical knowledge that is regarded as the source of wisdom for people. It is ultimately a matter of some delicacy as to whether this book is given full or merely partial credence, as the book has a clear perspective that is not strictly historical, but ultimately religious in nature. As someone who has a different religious worldview than the author's, I can recognize where his comes from and share his willingness to accept religious truth, but differ with him as to where that truth may be found as the source of genuine knowledge about history.
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November 2, 2012
First, let me admit to a certain bias, I’ve followed Coppens’ work for several years. His last book “The Ancient Alien Question” (my review) was freaking brilliant and much of what he writes is a “must-have” for your home library.
Needless to say, I thoroughly enjoyed “The Lost Civilization Enigma”. I guess that the most impressive part of this book, and others that Coppens’ writes, is the depth of research. Of course, as usual, I thumbed to the back of the book for the Notes and Bibliography — impressive.
The cover and the interior pictures are great. Color pictures of Lascaux, Machu Picchu, Gobekli Tepe, the Antikythera device, and more were simply eye-popping and I hope that New Page will continue to publish with color pictures.
The Lost Civilization Enigma can get a little dry, but if you are interested in the topic, I think you’ll find yourself absorbed in the book. It really is excellent and thought-provoking. I think that it is a must read. I give it a solid 4 1/2 stars and I highly recommend it. Review copy provided by New Page Books.
Needless to say, I thoroughly enjoyed “The Lost Civilization Enigma”. I guess that the most impressive part of this book, and others that Coppens’ writes, is the depth of research. Of course, as usual, I thumbed to the back of the book for the Notes and Bibliography — impressive.
The cover and the interior pictures are great. Color pictures of Lascaux, Machu Picchu, Gobekli Tepe, the Antikythera device, and more were simply eye-popping and I hope that New Page will continue to publish with color pictures.
The Lost Civilization Enigma can get a little dry, but if you are interested in the topic, I think you’ll find yourself absorbed in the book. It really is excellent and thought-provoking. I think that it is a must read. I give it a solid 4 1/2 stars and I highly recommend it. Review copy provided by New Page Books.
July 19, 2015
Extremely flimsy details, mostly heresay and hoaxes put forth as some sort of "enigma." Despite a few interesting parts, such as some evidence of human-worked mountains in Bosnia which resemble pyramids, (conventional archaeology dismisses this) Coppens finds a bunch of stuff that isn't very enigmatic.
November 17, 2015
The ideas in this book are not shocking, but the editing is atrocious. Perhaps this was an incomplete draft manuscript that was thrown together after the author's death. Many sentences do not make sense, and as is typical of this genre the conclusions and speculations are prone to overreaching.
September 6, 2017
A mish-mash of ancient historical material - although how much of it is accurate is highly debateable! The book is not particularly well-written and full of supposition and conjecture. Still, it contained one or two thought-provoking items, so not a complete waste of time.
January 19, 2013
Excellent read. Very informative. It's sad how blind and ignorant science has become. I wish there were more people like Philip Coppens. R.I.P.
February 14, 2022
Can't get over the weird opposition to 'science'. Just didn't trust the author.
November 7, 2023
Philip Coppens lays out a great bodywork of evidence for lost civilisations, including places not previously covered by Graham Hancock, such as Northern Europe.
A particular strength is how Coppens discects the corruption and institutional malaise rife in archaeology in greater detail than found in Graham Hancock. Particularly how Coppens examines the rather sordid career of Zahi Hawass, the Egyptian director of Antiquities.
On the whole, the book is very similar to the works of Graham Hancock, who is undoubtedly the master of this genre, however, if one is wondering if they should read this in addition to Hancock, the answer is a firm yes. Coppens brings different insights and different regions to the table, and this book should surely be on the reading list of all people interested in the field of lost civilisations.
A particular strength is how Coppens discects the corruption and institutional malaise rife in archaeology in greater detail than found in Graham Hancock. Particularly how Coppens examines the rather sordid career of Zahi Hawass, the Egyptian director of Antiquities.
On the whole, the book is very similar to the works of Graham Hancock, who is undoubtedly the master of this genre, however, if one is wondering if they should read this in addition to Hancock, the answer is a firm yes. Coppens brings different insights and different regions to the table, and this book should surely be on the reading list of all people interested in the field of lost civilisations.
March 13, 2022
Pretty sure the author suffers from the same arrogance and narrow mindedness he claims the established experts suffer from. He takes a few legitimate questions and wastes everyone’s time by taking the conspiracy route. The few legitimate arguments he makes are swamped by some of the most ridiculous claims you can get about this topic. Don’t bother with this book. There is plenty of great material on these subject - go elsewhere.
February 25, 2021
I really enjoyed this book. I really love alternative ideas, science, and conspiracies in general. The only thing I became frustrated with were the numerous typos, editorial errors, and mistakes that appeared to be due to a translation. New Page Books clearly had an editor who was asleep at the wheel with this book. I think its disappointing because the content was amazing.
March 12, 2020
A mish-mash of archaeology (both legitimate and highly dubious), speculation and flat out non-sense. I don't think anyone can question that it's a possibility that civilisation stretches far beyond available record so you don't have to act like you're the only one brave enough to say it out loud.
July 21, 2020
I didn't enjoy this as much as I thought I would, there are a few key parts in the book that are exciting and thought provoking, but a majority of the "stories" are essentially the same over and over.
February 13, 2022
Entertaining topic. Most of it is rubbish and pseudoscience, but there’s still some legitimately interesting stuff there. There was far too much snooty “I’m right and mainstream scientists are full of themselves” hubris throughout the book. I came to hear the ideas, not the trash talking.
March 31, 2025
I found the book to be interesting for the most part. However, the author spends too much time focusing on areas that do not contribute to the overall theme of the book. At certain points the reading becomes a ‘slog’ and I found that I would skim over sections just to get to the next break.
June 12, 2024
Very interesting. Not all history gets told so it was interesting to read about other civilizations that we are never told about
July 4, 2024
Professionally written and should be taken seriously
May 2, 2021
Again, a very interesting overview , well and clearly written
February 8, 2013
Do you believe that behind every legend, myth or story you've read about in school stems from parts of truth and reality? Would archeological finds have you standing first in line to scrutinize?
We are all so used to hearing about Egypt’s pyramids and how the Mayan civilization was an old thriving culture. But did you also know that Bosnia may soon be recognized as having the world's oldest pyramids? This story was just beginning to be discussed in 2005. Did you know that there is “forbidden archeology?” According to Michael Cremo and Richard L. Thompson, they wrote a book that uncovered bones and artifacts that show humans existed on earth millions of years ago. They also share how the scientific community has ignored these facts. There evidence had been removed from archaeological records because it didn't fit the traditional archeological records, thus becoming forbidden. Coppens takes readers into “lost civilizations of the old world” by taking us deeper into the story of Troy, Hyperborea, the first European Union and Egypt. Of course there are many more secrets revealed. According to Coppens, “Civilization is far older than we assume. Europe did not begin with the Greeks or Romans in the Eight Century BC, but at least in 9000 BC, as underlined by the work of Barry Cunliffe. In the Sahara, we can push back civilization to that same period, 9000 BC. But in the Middle East, the sites of Gobekli Tepe and Catal Hoyuk show that civilizations, capable of building extraordinary towns, manufacturing tools and jewelry, already existed in 10,000 BC.”
Coppens methodical introduction to so many varied civilizations will have readers amazed at all of these intriguing facts. Color photos can also be found in his section on, “Lost Civilizations of the New World,” along with information on the world's first computer. For those interested in learning more about Atlantis there is plenty of reading on that subject here. In Coppens conclusion he states that, “Instead, civilization should be redefined as humanity's discovery that there was more to this reality than meets the eye – the birth of encountering the divine and incorporating it within everyday existence.” Coppens has put together a vast amount of important findings and information. It isn't overwhelming but will peek the curiosity of any reader wanting to know about past lives, cultures and communities.
Philip Coppens is an author and investigative journalist, ranging from the world of politics to ancient history and mystery. He co-hosts The Spirit Revolution radio show with his wife Kathleen McGowan and is a frequent contributor to NEXUS Magazine and Atlantis Rising Magazine. Since 1995, he has lectured extensively and has appeared in a number of television and DVD documentaries, including Ancient Aliens: The Series (The History Channel). He is the author of nine English-language books, including The Stone Puzzle of Rosslyn Chapel, The New Pyramid Age, Servants of the Grail, Killing Kennedy, The Ancient Alien Question and The Lost Civilization Enigma.
We are all so used to hearing about Egypt’s pyramids and how the Mayan civilization was an old thriving culture. But did you also know that Bosnia may soon be recognized as having the world's oldest pyramids? This story was just beginning to be discussed in 2005. Did you know that there is “forbidden archeology?” According to Michael Cremo and Richard L. Thompson, they wrote a book that uncovered bones and artifacts that show humans existed on earth millions of years ago. They also share how the scientific community has ignored these facts. There evidence had been removed from archaeological records because it didn't fit the traditional archeological records, thus becoming forbidden. Coppens takes readers into “lost civilizations of the old world” by taking us deeper into the story of Troy, Hyperborea, the first European Union and Egypt. Of course there are many more secrets revealed. According to Coppens, “Civilization is far older than we assume. Europe did not begin with the Greeks or Romans in the Eight Century BC, but at least in 9000 BC, as underlined by the work of Barry Cunliffe. In the Sahara, we can push back civilization to that same period, 9000 BC. But in the Middle East, the sites of Gobekli Tepe and Catal Hoyuk show that civilizations, capable of building extraordinary towns, manufacturing tools and jewelry, already existed in 10,000 BC.”
Coppens methodical introduction to so many varied civilizations will have readers amazed at all of these intriguing facts. Color photos can also be found in his section on, “Lost Civilizations of the New World,” along with information on the world's first computer. For those interested in learning more about Atlantis there is plenty of reading on that subject here. In Coppens conclusion he states that, “Instead, civilization should be redefined as humanity's discovery that there was more to this reality than meets the eye – the birth of encountering the divine and incorporating it within everyday existence.” Coppens has put together a vast amount of important findings and information. It isn't overwhelming but will peek the curiosity of any reader wanting to know about past lives, cultures and communities.
Philip Coppens is an author and investigative journalist, ranging from the world of politics to ancient history and mystery. He co-hosts The Spirit Revolution radio show with his wife Kathleen McGowan and is a frequent contributor to NEXUS Magazine and Atlantis Rising Magazine. Since 1995, he has lectured extensively and has appeared in a number of television and DVD documentaries, including Ancient Aliens: The Series (The History Channel). He is the author of nine English-language books, including The Stone Puzzle of Rosslyn Chapel, The New Pyramid Age, Servants of the Grail, Killing Kennedy, The Ancient Alien Question and The Lost Civilization Enigma.
May 8, 2014
Well, okay, it's complicated. I mean my rating.
I bought this book because I got all obsessed with Gobelki Tepe and the description mentioned it. And it did have some cool stuff on that, especially in tying it in with everything else.
The amount of exclamation points in the beginning turned me off, though. I have a natural distrust of anyone trying to convince me of something with exclamation points. Plus, for a lot of that, it came across like he was ranting. (That can be great---it's just not what I want in a book like this.) I stuck with it, though, because I wanted to get to the Gobelki Tepe parts.
I was most absorbed with the book when he was sticking to reporting discoveries actually made, rather than opining. I was more convinced of his view when he wasn't trying to convince me of his view.
Now, I would have just "liked" it, except for the way he presented evidence for the existence of Atlantis. The way he put it all together, and in what order. I've never really believed Atlantis existed, though I always found information on it fascinating.
Coppens gives you the different reports just as they are---even the ones that are obviously bogus. Only by the time you get there, you're prepped by information he's given before, on totally different things, to deduce BS for yourself. And even though there's one bit of evidence he does seem to believe, that I think is most likely baloney, he didn't try to convince me of anything. And that was awesome. I wish the beginning of the book had been more like that.
Like I said, I've been fascinated with the idea of Atlantis, so I have definitely sat and watched programs on the search for it. It amazed me how much I didn't know, or had never heard.
And now. Now I totally believe Atlantis existed. Managing to change my belief? Yeah, that's worth four stars all by itself.
I bought this book because I got all obsessed with Gobelki Tepe and the description mentioned it. And it did have some cool stuff on that, especially in tying it in with everything else.
The amount of exclamation points in the beginning turned me off, though. I have a natural distrust of anyone trying to convince me of something with exclamation points. Plus, for a lot of that, it came across like he was ranting. (That can be great---it's just not what I want in a book like this.) I stuck with it, though, because I wanted to get to the Gobelki Tepe parts.
I was most absorbed with the book when he was sticking to reporting discoveries actually made, rather than opining. I was more convinced of his view when he wasn't trying to convince me of his view.
Now, I would have just "liked" it, except for the way he presented evidence for the existence of Atlantis. The way he put it all together, and in what order. I've never really believed Atlantis existed, though I always found information on it fascinating.
Coppens gives you the different reports just as they are---even the ones that are obviously bogus. Only by the time you get there, you're prepped by information he's given before, on totally different things, to deduce BS for yourself. And even though there's one bit of evidence he does seem to believe, that I think is most likely baloney, he didn't try to convince me of anything. And that was awesome. I wish the beginning of the book had been more like that.
Like I said, I've been fascinated with the idea of Atlantis, so I have definitely sat and watched programs on the search for it. It amazed me how much I didn't know, or had never heard.
And now. Now I totally believe Atlantis existed. Managing to change my belief? Yeah, that's worth four stars all by itself.
January 2, 2016
Coppens presents compelling evidence that human civilization is thousands of years older than we think.
Right off the bat, I took off a full star for poor editing. I can overlook a few errors because even professional editors can miss a typo here and there, but in this case it really is atrocious. Sometimes it's not just spelling, but word choice that is wrong (the author refers to the "tenants" of a religion - oy!).
Once you get past the poor editing, however, the content is intriguing. Was there a uniform pan-European megalithic culture? Was it the source of the Atlantis story, or was it a copy of the original Atlantis? Did the even older legendary civilization of Lemuria exist? Are the largest and oldest pyramids in the world lying unexcavated in Bosnia? Coppens tackles all of these questions and more and, in a move quite unusual for most authors of alternative history, does not answer every question in the affirmative. He weighs both sides of the evidence, calls a fake a fake, and in some instances admits there is no firm answer. That doesn't mean all (or even any) of his conclusions are correct, but it does increase my respect for him as a methodical, critical thinker.
An excellent introduction to historical mysteries.
Right off the bat, I took off a full star for poor editing. I can overlook a few errors because even professional editors can miss a typo here and there, but in this case it really is atrocious. Sometimes it's not just spelling, but word choice that is wrong (the author refers to the "tenants" of a religion - oy!).
Once you get past the poor editing, however, the content is intriguing. Was there a uniform pan-European megalithic culture? Was it the source of the Atlantis story, or was it a copy of the original Atlantis? Did the even older legendary civilization of Lemuria exist? Are the largest and oldest pyramids in the world lying unexcavated in Bosnia? Coppens tackles all of these questions and more and, in a move quite unusual for most authors of alternative history, does not answer every question in the affirmative. He weighs both sides of the evidence, calls a fake a fake, and in some instances admits there is no firm answer. That doesn't mean all (or even any) of his conclusions are correct, but it does increase my respect for him as a methodical, critical thinker.
An excellent introduction to historical mysteries.
September 26, 2015
First off, this dude is clearly not an author. Second, his editor is marginally an editor. Third, if this is your first book investigating lost history, you may want other books as supplemental reading. Having said these points, I think the subject matter is important and Coppens is clearly an expert in his field, though he is clearly biased in his opinions. This could have been a 5 star book, but we opted for four stars, with Kara giving the lower end due to a slight boredom factor and a lack of technical writing ability. I scored a little higher, in part due to my previous knowledge of the author, and honestly perhaps my own personal issues with the subject of disinformation; I dislike the past being held in lights that were preconceived and are clearly no longer true. If you're looking for information to help you conceive your own opinion of the past, this book may help give you pieces. You will need more books, however. And you may be bored. And you may be angered by both his aggressive nature and his lack of technical style. I recommend, and Kara recommends, both with caution.
September 14, 2017
This was the first book JMF and I read together. Looking back, the ranking seems a little generous. If you are seeking a well-written masterpiece, this is not the book to choose. It is, however, a fascinating perusal of archaeological information, most of which is not actively included in the mainstream discussion of ancient civilizations.
The author clearly has a bias; he is undeniably using the text to persuade the audience into adopting his perspective. His passion compromises his objectivity, leaving the skeptical reader no choice but to question the validity of his arguments.
The book does one thing well: it presents an interesting case for the existence of corruption--what we might call "politics"--within the archaeological community. It considers the idea that what we, as a society, have been taught is not an accurate representation of the historical truth.
Is it full of conspiracy? Yes. Is it an intriguing collection of thoughts to contemplate? Also yes. But you might want to bring along your tinfoil hats.
The truth, as they say, is out there.
K. Treason
The author clearly has a bias; he is undeniably using the text to persuade the audience into adopting his perspective. His passion compromises his objectivity, leaving the skeptical reader no choice but to question the validity of his arguments.
The book does one thing well: it presents an interesting case for the existence of corruption--what we might call "politics"--within the archaeological community. It considers the idea that what we, as a society, have been taught is not an accurate representation of the historical truth.
Is it full of conspiracy? Yes. Is it an intriguing collection of thoughts to contemplate? Also yes. But you might want to bring along your tinfoil hats.
The truth, as they say, is out there.
K. Treason
December 27, 2013
Very good research that goes beyond what I can comprehend a man can accomplish. Coppens I feel does a good job of being skeptical about easily attested accounts, as well as the levels of academia. He pokes holes in the leaders of academia and shows how many people are being intellectually dishonest about the discoveries and evidence suggested. I agree with his conclusion about far older civilizations than 10,000 years ago, and as more evidence presents itself, we will continue to see this is true. I was very interested in hearing about the accounts concerning The Ark , Atlantis, and The Crystal Skulls, as well as the various stones. I'd recommend the reading for someone with a brief knowledge of history, as there are many things I am even unfamiliar with until this book.
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