Civilization

Logic is the cement of our civilization with which we ascend from chaos using reason as our guide.

T’Plana-Hath, matron of Vulcan Philosophy¹

What separates countries and empires from civilizations is not size or wealth, or military power. It is their cultural significance, their contribution to Humanity.

Cultures might conquer others, but also ascend above raw power and economic exploitation, and contribute to science, art, philosophy, literature, and so on. Such contributions leave a lasting mark on Humankind for the better, not worse.

Conquering other nations, exploiting other people’s resources, and such contributes nothing useful. No one will remember you when you are gone someday, except maybe historians.

Instead, if a nation is going to be remembered, it will be remembered for leaving violence behind, and embracing reason and goodwill. By lifting people up, not trampling them By elevating science and reason, not superstition and religion. This is true for empires long ago, but also for police-states now.

At least that’s my opinion… 🖖🏼

¹ Quoted from both Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home, and the Star Trek: Enterprise episode “The Forge” (s4:ep7)