General Question

talljasperman's avatar

What defines a civilization?

Asked by talljasperman (21926points) January 29th, 2013

Also what is the ultamite goal for a civilization and how does one define progress?

Observing members: 0 Composing members: 0

3 Answers

fremen_warrior's avatar

There is no goal, unless you count survival and domination as goals.

What defines a civilization?

fremen_warrior (5510points)“Great Answer” (3points) Flag as…
Response moderated (Spam)
wundayatta's avatar

Civilization is for the benefit of those who are members of it. Whatever they decide they want is the goal of the moment. Civilizations are dynamic, so there is no ultimate goal, other than something general like the Millsian idea of the greatest good for the greatest number.

Progress is defined tautologically: progress towards the ultimate goal. Criteria for progress depend on the specific definition of the goal at the moment.

wundayatta (58741points)“Great Answer” (2points) Flag as…

Answer this question

Login

or

Join

to answer.

This question is in the General Section. Responses must be helpful and on-topic.

Your answer will be saved while you login or join.

Have a question? Ask Fluther!

What do you know more about?
or
Knowledge Networking @ Fluther