Civilization

Civilization

Civilization (or civilisation) is a sometimes controversial term that has been used in several related ways. Primarily, the term has been used to refer to the material and instrumental side of human cultures that are complex in terms of technology, science, and division of labor. Such civilizations are generally hierarchical and urbanized. In a classical context, people were called "civilized" to set them apart from barbarians, savages, and primitive peoples while in a modern-day context, "civilized peoples" have been contrasted with indigenous peoples or tribal societies.

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Famous quotes containing the word civilization:

    The further our civilization advances upon its present lines so much the cheaper sort of thing does “fame” become, especially of the literary sort. This species of “fame” a waggish acquaintance says can be manufactured to order, and sometimes is so manufactured.
    Herman Melville (1819–1891)

    You can’t say that civilization don’t advance ... for in every war they kill you a new way.
    Will Rogers (1879–1935)

    The sum of the whole matter is this, that our civilization cannot survive materially unless it be redeemed spiritually.
    Woodrow Wilson (1856–1924)