Argues that the biological standard of living did not improve in the Soviet Union as much as it did in other European countries.

Examines the height and weight of West Point Cadets in the 19th Century and finds that their height was declining in the Antebellum Period. Confirms earlier findings based on Union Army soldiers. Finds also that the cadets were quite underweight by modern standards.

The Nutritional status of the plains Indians was relatively high because they lived close to a rich supply of proteins: the bison. Same patterns can be observed in other pre- and early-industrial societies.