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CIVILIZATION
Civilization does not
mean being rich and putting on fine airs, nor does it mean
satisfying carnal desires and leading a luxurious, dissipated
life. What it really means is being civil and courteous, kind-hearted,
profound in thought, and respectful to others.
Savage people are usually cruel, oppressive and bloodthirsty,
as they usually live by plundering … However, what about those
civilized savages equipped with modern weaponry, who are always
seeking and finding subtle, deceiving ways of shedding blood?
Communities based on the joining of science and morality have
always established true civilizations. For this reason, Western
civilization remains paralyzed because it is based mainly
on science, and Eastern (Asian) civilizations are not “true”
because, in their present conditions, they have no scientific
background. The civilization of the future will have to be
founded upon a combination of Western science and Eastern
faith and morality.
Civilization means more than scientific advancement, modern
means of transportation, ships, and living in large cities
with skyscrapers. While such things may be adjuncts to civilization,
it is folly and ignorance to identify civilization with them.
If a given civilization is not based on morality and virtue
and nurtured in the pool of intelligence and conscience, it
is no more than a passing flash of illuminations that serves
a couple rich people and excites some thrill seekers. What
a pity for those who are fooled by its blinking lights.
One becomes truly civilized only when all human virtues and
potentialities have been developed to the degree that they
become second nature. People who think that civilization means
indulging all kinds of desires, and who identify it with outward
forms and modern fashions, are those lacking in sound judgment
and who have given in to their bodily desires.
 
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