Civilization as a study tool

Civilization is an immensely useful tool for studying history. The reasons are myriad and complex however a few stand out in particular. Civilization is a characterized by the presence of three basic institutions: a ceremonial center (a formal gathering place for social and cultural activities), a system of writing, and a city. Implied by the presence of these institutions is the existence of the Civilization’s language, culture, social practices and economic power. Due to the immense density of ideas, history and technology found within a standard civilizations they represent a convenient medium in which to view history. A broad lens in which a vast group of people can be viewed and characterized. The reasons for human beings leaving their nomadic lifestyles behind them were many. Chief among them was the greater propensity to survive in a civilization. Through the division of labor, engagement in intensive agriculture, mining, small-scale manufacturing and trade (characteristics of civilization) human beings thrive. The difference in human life span of those who lived as nomads and those of us in modern civilization is astronomical (about 30 years longer on average). Civilization concentrates power, extending man's control over both nature, and over other human beings allowing an easier, longer existence.

The geographical location of centers of civilization is of monumental importance to the civilization’s success. Before the use of Airplanes most trade was done through bodies of water, thus civilizations with a strong connection to port trading and fishing were highly successful. Even today most major population centers are near bodies of water. Also, on occasion geographical location was useful for defense. Consider the English Channel, which has protected the United Kingdom from invasion for hundreds of years. The last successful invasion was the Norman Conquest in 1066, not even the military prowess of the Spanish Armada (1589) or Nazi Germany