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Civilization exists by geological consent, subject to change without notice.
Will Durant
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Civilization is fragile and can change unexpectedly based on various factors.

This quote by Will Durant emphasizes the idea that civilization is not a permanent or fixed state; rather, it is contingent upon geological and environmental conditions, which can shift suddenly. It serves as a reminder to understand the temporary nature of societal constructs and the potential for drastic changes that can occur without prior warning.

Themes

CivilizationGeologyChangeFragilitySociety

In practice

Example use cases

In a lecture on the impact of climate change on society, one might use this quote to illustrate that civilization is vulnerable to environmental shifts.

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Nature smiles at the union of freedom and equality in our utopias. For freedom and equality are sworn and everlasting enemies, and when one prevails the other dies.
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The greatest question of our time is not communism vs. individualism, not Europe vs. America, not even the East vs. the West; it is whether men can bear to live without God.
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If we have never been amazed by the very fact that we exist, we are squandering the greatest fact of all.
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Philosophy is harmonized knowledge making a harmonious life; it is the self-discipline which lifts us to serenity and freedom. Knowledge is power, but only wisdom is liberty.
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If you wish to be loved, be modest; if you wish to be admired, be proud; if you wish both, combine external modesty with internal pride.
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When liberty destroys order the hunger for order will destroy liberty.
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