CIVILATION
For many years, discussions and controversy over trying to determine what actual basic ideas, inventions, discoveries and actions are responsible for our present civilization remain unresolved.. What was the main single-most productive item that could be identified down through the years? Scholars, scientists, anthropologists and others remain divided to this day as to the real reason.
There are those with divergent views, all of which have some basis in historical fact. These include, but are not limited to, mans` ability to control and use fire, the emerging ability to communicate, the invention of the wheel and the recognition of changing seasons. Much later, electricity, the industrial revolution, harnessing the atom and the on-set of computers certainly enhanced our well-being and contributed to civilization as we know it today. While there is no argument against the value of these things, I believe they miss the primary reason behind mans’ advancement.
Suppose we go back in time to the very beginning. Whether you believe in creation or evolution makes little difference as it pertains to this article. Either process had its origins at one place and at one time. From the very first, early man thrived, grew in numbers, and eventually migrated to most areas of the Earth. As the populations increased, many changes were forthcoming. There is no doubt early man had practically nothing for the first several million years. They were later known as hunter-gatherers. Finally they began to use grasses and leaves. Thus began their rise above all other animals.
These wanderers finally began to settle in certain land areas allowing rudimentary farming. It took many generations but they finally discovered corn and the ultimate use of corncobs, thereby allowing their behavior to advance many rungs up the ladder toward modern civilization. Later, they learned to manufacture and begin the use of all types of paper. Newspapers came into vogue and were widely used during this time. Also, Sears catalogs emerged along about then and were put to good use.
Finally, after millions and millions of years, came the most single item conducive to civilized behavior as we know it today. Yes, I am convinced I know what has always been the primary driving force behind accepted society. It is simply the invention of -----Toilet Paper! However, as great as that discovery was, is it finally going to be replaced? The genius of man has created that which will bring us to the absolute pinnacle of civilization. Finally, at long last, pre-moistened toilet paper has arrived! Can we possibly advance any further?<.P>
Gene Mays
4/17/2001
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