A great civilization is not conquered from without until it has destroyed itself from within.
Ariel DurantRead
The influence of geographic factors diminishes as technology grows. The character and contour of a terrain may offer opportunities for agriculture, mining, or trade, but only the imagination and initiative of leaders, and the hardy industry of followers, can transform the possibilities into fact...Man, not the earth, makes civilization.
Interpretation
As technology advances, human creativity and effort shape civilization more than geography.
This quote emphasizes the diminishing role of geography in influencing civilization as technology advances. While natural features may create opportunities, it is ultimately the human imagination, leadership, and industriousness that are responsible for transforming potential into reality, highlighting the importance of human agency in shaping society.
In practice
In a speech about innovation, one could use this quote to illustrate the importance of creativity over location.
A great civilization is not conquered from without until it has destroyed itself from within.
When his highness sends a ship to Egypt, does he trouble his head whether the mice on board are at their ease or not?
I have listened _x000D_ And I have looked _x000D_ With open eyes. _x000D_ I have poured my soul _x000D_ Into the world _x000D_ Seeking the unknown _x000D_ Within the known. _x000D_ And I sing out loud _x000D_ In amazement.
I have existed from the morning of the world and I shall exist until the last star falls from the night. Although I have taken the form of Gaius Caligula, I am all men as I am no man, and therefore I am a god.
And I think both the left and the right should celebrate people who have different opinions, and disagree with them, and argue with them, and differ with them, but don't just try to shut them up.
Poland is not East or West. Poland is at the center of European civilization. It has contributed mightily to that civilization. It is doing so today by being magnificently unreconciled to oppression.
What need is there to weep over parts of life? The whole of it calls for tears.
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