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About this quote

What does it mean?
Humanity recognizes that civilizations, like individuals, can end.
In plain terms
We know now that our societies can die like people do.
What can you take from it?
Acknowledge the finite nature of cultural systems.

Where it applies

  • historical study
  • philosophical reflection
  • policy making

Putting it to work

  • studying fallen empires
  • building resilient systems

Questions to consider

  • What makes civilizations fragile?
  • How do we respond to mortality?

Another view

Some cultures endure longer than others, challenging this view.

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