The Wide Range of Human Potential by Gilbert G. Nichols

Humanity vs Objectification in History

Gil Nichols returns with The Wide Range of Human Potential: Humanity vs Objectification in History, a re-examination of the history and perceptions of traditional Native American societies. 

Published just a year after the first book, Echoes of the Earth: Indigenous Wisdom for Modern Challenges, The Wide Range of Human Potential is an ethno-history that dials in on anthropological study, diving into Native American cultures and indigenous solutions to current issues.

“I wanted to educate readers on our true history and the beauty of traditional Native American societies,” Nichols described. “Historic and cultural accuracy were imperative, along with appropriate flow. I wanted to present in a balanced way that historic honesty is essential in a democracy, and also promote a better understanding of how Native cultures provide alternatives to the issues before us. I am gratified that the books are now available.”

Combining historical research and cultural anthropology, this book was written to identify the Nation-State Axial pattern behind colonialism and the relationship-based Native American value system that responded to it throughout its growth. 

Endorsements

Praise for his last work, Echoes of the Earth, shows promise as the release for The Wide Range of Human Potential approaches.

“Echoes of the Earth is a beautifully written book that offers an undeniable connection between centuries-long Indigenous values, and those of Montessori education. Nichols describes the validity of native culture in the context of modern life, particularly through themes of human purpose, value, and individuality within the context of community—all parallel to the values of Montessori education both a century ago, and today. A must-read for Montessorians and all educators.”

—Michele Shane, head of school, The Children’s House Montessori, Traverse City, Michigan; former president of Montessori Administrators Association; director on the board of AMI/USA

“Echoes of the Earth provides an engaging and unique view into the lives and traditions of Native Americans. As Nichols provides deep insights into Native American cultures and then draws a parallel look into the current majority culture, he provides the perfect conditions for reflection and deep thought. … Whether the topic is governance, agriculture, family structures, or spirituality, an examination of Native American culture provides another perspective worthy of consideration."

—Brad Kincheloe, PhD, principal, Park Hill High School, Kansas City, Missouri

The Author

Gil Nichols, a lifelong student of North American Indian cultures, was adopted by an Ihanktonwan Dakota family. For over forty years, he has participated in Lakota and Dakota ceremonies, including Sundances, vision quests, and purification rites. 

Nichols earned a BS in education, an MEd, and pursued post-graduate studies at multiple universities. He taught high school social sciences for thirty years, creating a critical thinking curriculum, and later taught American Indian studies at William Jewell College and the University of Missouri-Kansas City. He volunteered extensively with Native American inmates and was active in cultural leadership roles. An avid traveler and art collector, Nichols resides in Kansas City, Missouri.

The Book

About the book

The Wide Range of Human Potential: Humanity vs Objectification in History

Gilbert G. Nichols

290 pages, 6” x 9”, B/W

History / Indigenous / Colonial History & Interaction with Nations, Tribes, Bands & Communities / Social Science / Native American Studies / Political Science / Native American / History / Civilization

ISBN: 978-1-968761-91-2, $27.95 (Hardcover)

ISBN: 978-1-968761-92-9, $18.95 (Softcover)

Publication Date: 10/29/2026

Mission Point Press

Copies are available for preorder at Bookshop.org, Amazon, and other online retailers. On its October 29 publication date, it will be available for purchase wherever books are sold. For information or to arrange for signings and events, contact the author at falcon2271@gmail.com.  

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