How important to the development of a lasting civilization is the ability to survive.

The ability to survive is a fundamental and crucial factor in the development of a lasting civilization. Survival encompasses various aspects, including physical well-being, economic stability, and social cohesion. Here are key reasons why survival is vital for the development and sustainability of a civilization:

1. Foundation for Progress:

  - Survival provides the foundation for any form of progress or development. A civilization that cannot meet its basic needs, such as food, water, and shelter, will struggle to advance in other areas, including technology, culture, and governance.

2. Population Stability:

  - Sustainable survival contributes to population stability. When a civilization can adequately support its population, it is more likely to thrive and endure over time. Population growth without the means to sustain it can lead to societal challenges.

3. Economic Stability:

  - Economic stability is essential for the development of a lasting civilization. A society needs a reliable and productive economic system to meet the needs of its people, invest in infrastructure, and support various endeavors.

4. Cultural and Intellectual Growth:

  - A civilization that can secure its survival is better positioned to invest in cultural and intellectual pursuits. Education, arts, philosophy, and scientific advancements often flourish in societies where survival is not a constant immediate concern.

5. Social Cohesion:

  - Survival fosters social cohesion and a sense of community. When individuals and groups within a civilization feel secure in their basic needs, they are more likely to collaborate, trust one another, and work towards common goals.

6. Institutional Development:

  - Institutions such as governance structures, legal systems, and social organizations are more likely to develop and endure when the population's survival is assured. Stable institutions contribute to the long-term stability of a civilization.

7. Environmental Sustainability:

  - The ability to survive also involves responsible stewardship of the environment. Sustainable practices and a harmonious relationship with the natural world contribute to the long-term viability of a civilization.

In summary, the ability to survive forms the bedrock upon which the other aspects of a civilization are built. While survival alone may not guarantee the richness and complexity of a lasting civilization, it is an indispensable prerequisite for the development and sustainability of societies over time.