A Definition of Civilization at mrdowling.com

There are many ways to define a civilization, but most scholars agree that when a society begins to form cities, it becomes a civilization. In fact, the word itself comes from the Latin civilis, meaning "of the city." Most civilizations have the following elements:

A surplus of food

Prehistoric people were nomadic. They had no home because they were constantly in search of food. When people cannot rely on having a steady supply of food, then finding food becomes their highest priority. When people have enough food, they begin to develop other needs.

A division of labor

When people have one job, through constant practice, they tend to do that job very well. They are also more likely to work at a job that brings them satisfaction. In order for people to work at individual jobs, people must cooperate with one another.

Organized government and religion

When people have the same laws, it is easier to trade. People living under the same government, or having the same religious beliefs are likely to have the same values. A level of trust and mutual responsibility often grows among people who share the same values.

Writing

Writing allowed people to keep records and communicate. With writing you can pass knowledge through time and space. A written message can travel great a distance, and a message can also live on past the life of the writer.

Civilization

A surplus of food

A division of labor

Organized government and religion

Writing

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