People & Civilisations

 

Abstract

This article explores the enduring desire of humanity to dominate and exert control over others, examining the historical and psychological factors that have contributed to this impulse. From the earliest known civilizations to the present day, societies have been shaped by the pursuit of power and the desire to dominate. The article delves into the factors that have contributed to this drive, including the need for security, resources, and status. The article then examines how various civilizations throughout history have sought to assert dominance over their peers, through means such as military conquest, economic power, and cultural influence. By analyzing the characteristics of successful civilizations, the article also explores the key indicators of prosperity and longevity, including strong governance, innovation, and social cohesion. Through a comprehensive examination of these themes, the article aims to provide a deeper understanding of the human desire for domination and how it has influenced the course of human history.

Keywords

human desire, domination, power, control, civilizations, history, society, psychology, military conquest, economic power, cultural influence, innovation, governance, social cohesion, prosperity, longevity.

Introduction

The desire for domination is a fundamental aspect of human nature that has played a significant role in shaping history and the development of civilizations. From ancient empires to modern nations, the drive to exert control over others has been a powerful force, driving conflicts and shaping the course of human events.

The roots of this desire for domination can be traced back to the earliest days of human society, where competition for resources and power fueled the emergence of complex social structures and the rise of dominant individuals and groups. Throughout history, this drive for domination has taken many forms, from conquest and colonization to political and economic exploitation.

The historical record is filled with examples of civilizations that have risen to great heights on the basis of their ability to dominate others, only to fall into decline and collapse under the weight of their own excesses. Yet, despite the lessons of history, the desire for domination remains a powerful force in modern society, fueling conflicts and perpetuating inequality and injustice.

Understanding the complex interplay of social, cultural, and psychological factors that underlie this desire for domination is crucial to building a more just and equitable world. By exploring the historical roots of this phenomenon and the lessons of past civilizations, we can gain valuable insights into the challenges facing modern society and chart a path toward a more sustainable and humane future.

Why is domination a human desire?

The desire for domination is a complex human emotion that can stem from a variety of factors, including evolutionary and cultural influences, as well as individual psychological and social factors.

On an evolutionary level, humans have evolved to compete for resources and territory, which can often involve the use of force and dominance over others. In the past, this may have been necessary for survival, and those who were more dominant were often able to secure more resources and mates, which increased their chances of passing on their genes to future generations.

On a cultural level, dominance and power have been highly valued in many societies throughout history, with individuals and groups competing for social status, wealth, and influence. In many cases, this has involved the use of force and aggression, as well as the subjugation of other individuals and groups.

On an individual level, the desire for domination can also be driven by psychological factors, such as a need for control, a desire for validation or recognition, or a sense of insecurity or inadequacy. Individuals who feel powerless or lacking in control may seek to exert dominance over others as a way of feeling more powerful and in control.

Overall, the desire for domination is a complex human emotion that can be influenced by a variety of factors, including evolutionary, cultural, and individual factors. While it is a natural human impulse, it can also be dangerous and harmful, particularly when it leads to the subjugation or mistreatment of others.

Human beings are complex creatures with a wide range of emotions, desires, and behaviors. One aspect of human nature that has been the subject of much debate and analysis is our desire for domination. From the earliest days of human civilization, people have sought to gain power and control over others, whether through physical force, political maneuvering, or other means.

This desire for domination can manifest in many ways, from individual acts of aggression to larger societal and political systems that prioritize control and authority. Some argue that this desire is a natural outgrowth of our evolutionary history, while others point to cultural and environmental factors that may shape our behavior.

Whatever the underlying causes, the drive for domination has played a major role in shaping human history, from the rise and fall of empires to the struggles for social and political power that continue to this day. Understanding this aspect of human nature is essential if we hope to build a more just and equitable world, and to create systems and structures that encourage cooperation, compassion, and mutual respect.

When in history did civilisation start?

The exact definition of what constitutes a civilization is somewhat subjective, but in general, a civilization is a complex human society characterized by advanced social, economic, and political structures, as well as significant cultural and technological achievements. The emergence of civilization is typically associated with the development of agriculture, which allowed for the creation of settled communities that could support larger populations and develop more complex social structures.

The earliest known civilizations emerged in various regions around the world in the period between 4000 BCE and 3000 BCE. Some of the earliest known civilizations include the Sumerians in Mesopotamia (present-day Iraq), the Egyptians in the Nile River Valley, the Harappans in the Indus River Valley (present-day Pakistan), and the Norte Chico civilization in Peru. These early civilizations were characterized by complex political structures, urbanization, the development of writing systems, and advances in science, technology, and the arts.

However, it's worth noting that there were also earlier cultures and societies that exhibited some characteristics of civilization, but did not necessarily meet all of the criteria for a true civilization. For example, the Neolithic Revolution, which began around 10,000 BCE, saw the emergence of agricultural practices in various parts of the world, which allowed for the development of settled communities and the accumulation of surplus resources. While these societies may not have been as complex or advanced as later civilizations, they represent an important stage in human development and the emergence of more complex forms of social organization.

The period between 4000 BCE and 3000 BCE saw the emergence of some of the earliest known civilizations in various regions around the world. These civilizations were characterized by complex social, economic, and political structures, as well as significant cultural and technological achievements.

In Mesopotamia (present-day Iraq), the Sumerian civilization emerged in the fourth millennium BCE, with cities such as Uruk and Ur becoming centers of trade, agriculture, and culture. The Sumerians developed a writing system, known as cuneiform, as well as advances in architecture, mathematics, astronomy, and the arts.

In the Nile River Valley, the ancient Egyptian civilization emerged around 3100 BCE, with the unification of Upper and Lower Egypt under the first pharaoh, Narmer. The Egyptians developed a sophisticated system of writing, as well as advances in agriculture, medicine, engineering, and the arts, including the construction of monumental pyramids and temples.

In the Indus River Valley (present-day Pakistan), the Harappan civilization emerged around 2600 BCE, with cities such as Harappa and Mohenjo-daro exhibiting advanced urban planning, sanitation systems, and a writing system that has yet to be fully deciphered. The Harappans also developed significant advancements in metallurgy, trade, and the arts.

In Peru, the Norte Chico civilization emerged around 3500 BCE, with the city of Caral becoming one of the largest urban centers in the Americas. The Norte Chico civilization developed significant advancements in agriculture, with a system of irrigation canals that allowed for the cultivation of large crops, as well as advances in architecture, textiles, and other arts.

Overall, the period between 4000 BCE and 3000 BCE saw the emergence of some of the earliest known civilizations in various regions around the world, which laid the foundation for the development of more complex forms of social, economic, and political organization in the centuries and millennia that followed.

The Sumerian civilization was one of the earliest known civilizations in the world, emerging in the region of southern Mesopotamia (present-day Iraq) around 4000 BCE. The Sumerians established a highly advanced society with sophisticated architecture, art, religion, government, and economy.

One of the most notable achievements of the Sumerians was their development of a system of writing known as cuneiform, which used a stylus to make wedge-shaped marks on clay tablets. Cuneiform was used to record everything from economic transactions and legal codes to myths, hymns, and epic poems.

The Sumerians built many cities, the most famous of which were Uruk and Ur. These cities were centers of trade, agriculture, and culture, and were characterized by monumental architecture, such as the ziggurat, a massive stepped pyramid used for religious purposes. The Sumerians also developed complex irrigation systems to support their agricultural activities, including the use of canals, dams, and reservoirs.

The Sumerian religion was polytheistic, with a pantheon of gods and goddesses that were associated with natural phenomena, such as the sun, moon, and stars, as well as with aspects of human life, such as love, war, and fertility. The Sumerians built elaborate temples to their gods, which served as centers of worship and social organization.

The Sumerian government was organized as a city-state system, with each city having its own ruler and administration. Over time, some city-states became more powerful than others, and conflicts between them were common. The Sumerians also developed a system of law, which was codified in the Code of Ur-Nammu and the Code of Hammurabi.

The Sumerian economy was based on agriculture, trade, and manufacturing. The Sumerians traded with other civilizations in the region, such as the Akkadians and the Elamites, and developed sophisticated manufacturing techniques, such as metallurgy, weaving, and pottery.

Overall, the Sumerian civilization was a highly advanced and influential society that laid the foundation for many aspects of later civilizations in the region, such as the Babylonians and the Assyrians.

The ancient Egyptian civilization emerged along the Nile River in northeastern Africa around 3100 BCE, and lasted for over 3,000 years. It was characterized by a highly developed culture, including advanced architecture, art, religion, and a unique system of writing known as hieroglyphics.

The Egyptians built impressive monuments, such as pyramids, temples, and obelisks, as well as sophisticated irrigation systems to support agriculture. The pyramids were built as tombs for pharaohs and their consorts, and are considered to be one of the most iconic architectural achievements in human history. The largest of the pyramids, the Great Pyramid of Giza, was built around 2560 BCE, and remained the tallest man-made structure in the world for over 3,800 years.

The ancient Egyptians had a complex and elaborate religion, which included a pantheon of gods and goddesses. The pharaoh was believed to be a god-king who had the power to intercede with the gods on behalf of his people. The Egyptians believed in an afterlife and spent considerable resources on preparing for it, building tombs, and furnishing them with everything the deceased might need in the next world.

The Egyptian writing system was hieroglyphic, which used a combination of pictures and symbols to represent words and ideas. It was used to record religious texts, histories, and administrative documents, and was written on papyrus, a form of paper made from reeds that grew along the Nile River.

The Egyptian society was divided into social classes, with the pharaoh and his family at the top, followed by the nobility, the scribes, the artisans, and the peasants. Slavery was also present in ancient Egypt, with captives of war and prisoners serving as slaves.

The economy of ancient Egypt was based on agriculture, with the Nile River providing a reliable source of water for irrigation. The Egyptians also engaged in trade with neighboring regions, such as Nubia, Libya, and the Near East, and developed a sophisticated banking system to facilitate long-distance trade.

Overall, the ancient Egyptian civilization was a highly influential and advanced society that made significant contributions to human history, particularly in the fields of art, architecture, and religion.

The Harappan civilization, also known as the Indus Valley Civilization, emerged in the northwestern region of the Indian subcontinent around 2600 BCE and lasted until around 1900 BCE. It was one of the earliest and most advanced civilizations of the ancient world, with highly developed urban planning, engineering, and trade networks.

The Harappan civilization is characterized by its cities, which were remarkably well-planned for their time. The cities were built on a grid pattern, with streets laid out in a rectangular shape. They also had a sophisticated drainage system, with indoor toilets and sewers that carried waste away from the houses.

One of the most notable features of the Harappan civilization is the extensive trade networks that the people established. They traded with other regions throughout South Asia and the Middle East, and evidence of their trade has been found in the form of pottery, beads, and other artifacts.

The Harappans were skilled in the art of metallurgy and produced a range of metal objects, including copper, bronze, and gold jewelry. They also developed a form of writing, which has yet to be fully deciphered, but is believed to have been used for record-keeping.

The religion of the Harappans is not well understood, as little written evidence of their beliefs has been found. However, many figurines and other objects have been discovered that suggest a fertility cult may have been important to their religious practices.

The Harappan civilization declined around 1900 BCE for reasons that are still debated by historians. One theory is that a shift in the course of the Indus River, which provided water for irrigation and trade, may have contributed to their decline. Another theory is that the civilization was destroyed by invasions or natural disasters, such as earthquakes or floods.

Despite its relatively short existence, the Harappan civilization made significant contributions to human history, particularly in the fields of urban planning, engineering, and trade. Its legacy can be seen in the continued use of many of their innovations, such as the grid pattern of city planning and the use of indoor plumbing.

The Norte Chico civilization, also known as the Caral civilization, was a pre-Columbian civilization that flourished on the north coast of Peru between 3200 BCE and 1800 BCE. It is considered one of the oldest civilizations in the Americas and one of the earliest examples of urbanism in the world.

The Norte Chico civilization was centered on the Supe River valley and is known for its large, monumental architecture, including pyramids, plazas, and stone buildings. The most well-known site of the Norte Chico civilization is the ancient city of Caral, which was once a thriving center of culture and commerce.

One of the unique features of the Norte Chico civilization is the absence of any evidence of warfare, suggesting a relatively peaceful society. Instead of fortifications, the cities were surrounded by agricultural terraces, which were used for growing crops like maize and cotton.

The Norte Chico civilization is also notable for its advanced agricultural practices, including the use of irrigation systems to manage water resources. The people of the Norte Chico civilization also developed a sophisticated textile industry, producing textiles made from cotton, which were used for clothing, bags, and other items.

The religion of the Norte Chico civilization is not well understood, as little written evidence of their beliefs has been found. However, the people of the Norte Chico civilization are known to have constructed large ceremonial buildings, suggesting the importance of ritual and religious practices in their culture.

The Norte Chico civilization declined around 1800 BCE for reasons that are still debated by historians. One theory is that environmental factors, such as drought or climate change, may have contributed to their decline. Another theory is that the civilization was absorbed by neighboring cultures.

Despite its relatively short existence, the Norte Chico civilization made significant contributions to human history, particularly in the fields of architecture, agriculture, and textiles. Its legacy can be seen in the continued use of many of their innovations, such as the use of irrigation systems for agriculture, which is still used in modern Peru.

What has been the most enduring civilisation in history?

It is difficult to say which civilization has been the most enduring in history as the concept of "civilization" is complex and there have been many civilizations that have risen and fallen over time. However, some of the civilizations that have had a lasting impact on the world include:

1.       Ancient Egyptian civilization: The civilization of ancient Egypt lasted for over 3000 years and is known for its impressive architecture, art, and innovations such as writing, mathematics, and medicine.

2.       Ancient Chinese civilization: The civilization of ancient China lasted for over 5000 years and is known for its enduring traditions, philosophies, and inventions such as paper, gunpowder, and the compass.

3.       Ancient Greek civilization: The civilization of ancient Greece lasted from the 8th century BCE to the 4th century BCE and is known for its contributions to philosophy, art, architecture, and democracy.

4.       Roman civilization: The civilization of ancient Rome lasted from the 8th century BCE to the 5th century CE and is known for its impressive engineering, military conquests, and lasting impact on Western culture.

5.       Indian civilization: The civilization of ancient India dates back to the Indus Valley civilization of the 3rd millennium BCE and is known for its rich cultural and religious traditions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism.

All of these civilizations have had a significant impact on human history and their legacies can still be seen in the world today.

The civilization that has lasted the longest in history is a matter of debate among historians, as the concept of "civilization" is complex and there are different ways of measuring longevity. However, there are a few civilizations that are often cited as having the longest histories:

1.       Chinese civilization: Chinese civilization is one of the oldest in the world, with a history that dates back over 5,000 years. Chinese civilization has undergone many changes and has experienced periods of decline, but has persisted in one form or another to the present day.

2.       Ancient Egyptian civilization: Ancient Egyptian civilization lasted for over 3,000 years, from the Early Dynastic Period in the 3rd millennium BCE until the end of the Ptolemaic dynasty in 30 BCE.

3.       Indus Valley civilization: The Indus Valley civilization, also known as the Harappan civilization, flourished from around 2600 BCE to 1900 BCE in what is now India and Pakistan.

4.       Sumerian civilization: The Sumerian civilization, which emerged in Mesopotamia around 4000 BCE, is considered one of the earliest civilizations in history. While the Sumerian civilization declined and eventually disappeared, it laid the foundation for the development of later civilizations in the region.

It's important to note that the longevity of a civilization is not necessarily an indicator of its success or superiority, as civilizations can have complex histories with many ups and downs.

The civilization of China is one of the oldest and most enduring in the world, with a history that dates back over 5,000 years. China has undergone many changes over the centuries, but its unique cultural, social, and political traditions have persisted and continue to have a significant impact on the world today.

The earliest evidence of Chinese civilization can be traced back to the Neolithic period, around 8000 BCE, when early societies developed in the Yellow River valley. Over time, these societies grew more complex and developed into the first dynasties, such as the Xia dynasty (c. 2100–1600 BCE), which is said to have been founded by the legendary Emperor Yu.

The Shang dynasty (c. 1600–1046 BCE) was the first dynasty for which there is historical evidence. The Shang kings established a centralized government and developed a system of writing, which allowed them to keep records and issue commands. They also developed advanced bronze metallurgy and were known for their elaborate ritual practices, including ancestor worship and divination.

The Zhou dynasty (1046–256 BCE) succeeded the Shang dynasty and was one of the longest-lasting dynasties in Chinese history. The Zhou kings established a feudal system of government, in which power was distributed among a network of nobles and vassals. The Zhou dynasty is also known for its contributions to philosophy, particularly the works of Confucius and Laozi, which have had a lasting impact on Chinese culture and society.

The Qin dynasty (221–206 BCE) marked the beginning of the imperial period in Chinese history. Under the first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, the country was united and centralized under a powerful autocratic government. The Qin dynasty is known for its massive building projects, including the construction of the Great Wall of China and the mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang, which is guarded by the famous Terracotta Army.

The Han dynasty (206 BCE–220 CE) followed the Qin dynasty and is considered one of the golden ages of Chinese civilization. The Han emperors continued the centralized government established by the Qin dynasty and expanded China's territory through military conquest. They also made important contributions to art, literature, philosophy, and science, including the invention of paper, the development of the silk road trade network, and the creation of the Chinese calendar.

Over the centuries, China has experienced many other dynasties, including the Tang (618–907 CE) and Song (960–1279 CE) dynasties, which are known for their advancements in science, technology, and the arts. In the modern era, China has undergone significant political and social changes, including the establishment of the People's Republic of China in 1949 and the recent rise of China as a global economic and political power. Throughout its long history, China has had a profound impact on the world, and its cultural and intellectual traditions continue to inspire and influence people around the globe.

The Ancient Egyptian civilization was one of the most advanced and sophisticated civilizations of the ancient world. It emerged in the Nile Valley around 3100 BCE and lasted for over 3,000 years until it was conquered by the Roman Empire in 30 BCE.

The civilization was characterized by a highly centralized government, complex religious and funerary practices, a highly developed system of writing, and remarkable achievements in art and architecture.

The Ancient Egyptians believed in a complex pantheon of gods and goddesses, and their religion played a significant role in their daily lives. They believed in an afterlife and spent much time and effort in preparing for it through the construction of elaborate tombs and the practice of mummification.

The Ancient Egyptians developed a highly sophisticated system of writing called hieroglyphics, which they used for both religious and secular purposes. They also developed a system of mathematics, and their knowledge of geometry was highly advanced.

One of the most remarkable achievements of the Ancient Egyptians was their architecture, which is exemplified by the construction of monumental structures such as the pyramids and temples. The Great Pyramid of Giza, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, is a testament to the remarkable engineering and organizational skills of the Ancient Egyptians.

The Ancient Egyptians also made important contributions to the fields of medicine, science, and agriculture. They developed a system of writing and a calendar, and they were skilled in the use of metalworking, textiles, and glassmaking.

The civilization declined over time due to a number of factors, including political instability, economic decline, and invasions from foreign powers. However, its influence can still be felt today in the form of its art, architecture, and cultural traditions.

The Indus Valley civilization, also known as the Harappan civilization, was a Bronze Age civilization that emerged in the northwestern region of the Indian subcontinent around 2600 BCE. It was one of the earliest urban civilizations in the world, with cities that were highly organized and planned.

The civilization was named after the Indus River, which is one of the longest rivers in Asia and was a vital source of water for the cities of the Indus Valley. The Harappan civilization was spread across what is now Pakistan and parts of northwestern India.

One of the distinctive features of the Indus Valley civilization was the highly organized layout of its cities. The cities were designed with a grid-like pattern, with streets and houses that were carefully planned and laid out. The houses had a sophisticated drainage system, which shows that the Harappans had a good understanding of the importance of sanitation.

The Indus Valley civilization had a highly advanced system of writing, which is known as the Indus script. However, the script has not yet been deciphered, and very little is known about the language spoken by the Harappans. The civilization also had a highly developed system of weights and measures, as well as a complex system of trade.

The Harappan civilization was characterized by a highly centralized government, with a ruling elite who were in control of the major cities. Religion was an important aspect of life in the Indus Valley, with evidence of temples and other religious structures found in the cities.

The Indus Valley civilization declined around 1900 BCE, for reasons that are still not entirely clear. Some scholars have suggested that the civilization was brought down by a combination of factors, including environmental changes, floods, and invasions from outside forces.

Despite its decline, the Indus Valley civilization had a lasting impact on the Indian subcontinent. The technology and urban planning skills developed by the Harappans influenced the later development of Indian civilization, and many of the cultural and religious practices of modern-day India can be traced back to the Indus Valley civilization.

The Sumerian civilization was one of the earliest known civilizations, which emerged in the southern part of Mesopotamia (present-day Iraq) around 4000 BCE. It is considered to be one of the cradles of civilization, along with ancient Egypt, the Indus Valley civilization, and ancient China.

One of the defining features of Sumerian civilization was the development of writing, which is often referred to as the cuneiform script. This form of writing was used to keep records, write literature, and communicate information, and it is considered to be the first known form of writing.

The Sumerians developed a highly advanced system of governance and a complex society with a sophisticated hierarchy. They were ruled by kings who were considered to be divinely appointed and had the power to make laws, control trade, and direct military affairs. Priests and priestesses also played an important role in Sumerian society, acting as intermediaries between the people and the gods.

The Sumerians were highly skilled in agriculture, with irrigation systems that allowed them to cultivate crops even in arid regions. They also developed advanced metalworking techniques and were skilled in the production of textiles, pottery, and other crafts.

Religion was an important aspect of Sumerian civilization, and their religious beliefs were focused on the worship of multiple gods and goddesses. They built grand temples and religious structures, and their mythology is rich with stories of gods and heroes.

The Sumerian civilization also had a highly developed system of trade, with merchants traveling throughout the region to exchange goods and ideas. They traded goods such as textiles, metals, and agricultural products, and they also established long-distance trade routes with other civilizations.

The Sumerian civilization declined around 2000 BCE due to a combination of factors, including environmental changes, economic instability, and invasions from outside forces. However, many of the advancements made by the Sumerians had a lasting impact on human civilization, including the development of writing, governance, and agriculture. The Sumerians were a highly influential civilization, and their legacy can be seen in the culture and society of many modern countries.

The ways in which ancient civilizations occupied the time of their population varied depending on the specific society and the time period in which they lived. However, there are a few general activities and practices that were common to many ancient civilizations:

1.       Agriculture: Many ancient civilizations were based on agriculture, which occupied the majority of the population's time. People worked to cultivate crops and care for animals, which were used for food, clothing, and transportation.

2.       Crafts and Trade: Alongside agriculture, many ancient civilizations developed crafts and trades that occupied a significant portion of their populations. Crafts such as weaving, metalworking, and pottery making were common, as were trades such as merchant trading and construction.

3.       Religion: Religion was a central aspect of life in many ancient civilizations, and people spent time participating in religious ceremonies, making offerings to deities, and building and maintaining temples and other religious structures.

4.       Education: Education and the transmission of knowledge were highly valued in many ancient civilizations, and people spent time learning from teachers, reading and writing, and studying various fields such as mathematics, astronomy, and medicine.

5.       Art and Entertainment: Ancient civilizations developed a wide range of artistic and entertainment activities, such as music, dance, drama, and storytelling. These activities were often tied to religion or other cultural practices, and provided a form of leisure time for people to enjoy.

Overall, ancient civilizations occupied the time of their populations through a variety of activities and practices, many of which were focused on meeting basic needs such as food and shelter, while others were focused on cultural and intellectual pursuits.

Science and technology were also important aspects of many ancient civilizations. The level of scientific and technological development varied depending on the specific society and the time period in which they lived, but many ancient civilizations made significant contributions in fields such as mathematics, astronomy, engineering, and medicine.

For example, the ancient Egyptians developed advanced knowledge of mathematics, which they used in construction, surveying, and accounting. They also developed a sophisticated understanding of astronomy, which they used to track the movements of the stars and develop a calendar.

The ancient Greeks made important contributions to the fields of mathematics, including geometry and algebra, and developed early models of scientific inquiry and philosophy. They also developed technologies such as the water wheel, the lever, and the pulley, which were used for irrigation, transportation, and other purposes.

The ancient Chinese developed important technologies such as gunpowder, paper, and the compass, which had significant impacts on world history. They also made important contributions in fields such as medicine, including the development of acupuncture and herbal medicine.

Overall, science and technology were important aspects of many ancient civilizations, and the knowledge and innovations developed by these societies helped to shape the world we live in today.

The keys to success for modern world civilizations are complex and multifaceted, and may vary depending on a variety of factors such as geography, demographics, culture, and history. However, some general factors that contribute to the success of modern civilizations include:

1.       Strong economic foundations: Economic growth and development are important factors for the success of modern civilizations. This includes having a stable and reliable source of income, diversified industries, and a skilled workforce.

2.       Stable political systems: A stable political system that provides a fair and just society, a predictable and consistent legal system, and an environment that encourages innovation and entrepreneurship is important for success.

3.       Quality education: Education is a critical factor for the success of modern civilizations, and a well-educated population can drive economic growth, technological innovation, and societal development.

4.       Access to technology: Technology is a key driver of growth and progress in modern civilizations. The ability to access and develop cutting-edge technologies, such as those related to communication, transportation, and energy, is important for economic growth and competitiveness.

5.       Infrastructure: Infrastructure such as transportation, energy, and communication systems is critical for modern civilizations to function efficiently and effectively. This includes well-maintained roads and highways, reliable energy grids, and advanced communication networks.

6.       Social cohesion: Social cohesion is important for modern civilizations to thrive. A society with low levels of crime and violence, high levels of social trust, and a shared sense of purpose can create an environment where individuals and communities can thrive.

7.       Environmental sustainability: Finally, modern civilizations must balance economic growth and development with environmental sustainability. This includes addressing climate change, protecting natural resources, and ensuring that future generations have the resources and opportunities they need to succeed.

There are many countries in the world that have made progress in achieving these 7 key indicators for success of modern civilizations. Here are a few examples:

Strong economic foundations:

·         United States

·         Germany

·         Japan

·         China

Stable political systems:

·         Norway

·         Canada

·         Sweden

·         Germany

Quality education:

·         Finland

·         Japan

·         South Korea

·         Singapore

Access to technology:

·         United States

·         South Korea

·         Japan

·         Singapore

Infrastructure:

·         Switzerland

·         Canada

·         United States

·         Germany

Social cohesion:

·         Denmark

·         Norway

·         Canada

·         New Zealand

Environmental sustainability:

·         Costa Rica

·         Sweden

·         Switzerland

·         Finland

It is important to note that while these countries have made progress in these areas, no country is perfect in all of these indicators, and there are always areas for improvement. Additionally, different countries prioritize different indicators depending on their history, culture, and values.

It is difficult to say which countries are bad examples of all 7 key indicators for success of modern civilizations, as countries may vary in their performance across these different areas. However, here are some examples of countries that may struggle in one or more of these areas:

Strong economic foundations:

·         Venezuela

·         Zimbabwe

·         North Korea

·         Syria

Stable political systems:

·         North Korea

·         Syria

·         Somalia

·         Eritrea

Quality education:

·         Central African Republic

·         Chad

·         Afghanistan

·         Yemen

Access to technology:

·         North Korea

·         Eritrea

·         Somalia

·         Syria

Infrastructure:

·         Afghanistan

·         Somalia

·         Yemen

·         Haiti

Social cohesion:

·         Syria

·         Somalia

·         Yemen

·         South Sudan

Environmental sustainability:

·         China

·         India

·         Russia

·         United States

Again, it is important to note that these countries may face challenges in one or more of these areas for a variety of reasons, including political instability, economic conditions, natural disasters, or other factors. It is also worth noting that while some countries may struggle in one area, they may excel in others, and it is not necessarily fair to label them as "bad examples" across the board.