If one is interested in a take on this problem by an anthropologist/archaeologist turned epic fantasy writer, touching upon some of the thoughts in the comments

If one is interested in a take on this problem by an anthropologist/archaeologist turned epic fantasy writer, touching upon some of the thoughts in the comments here, see: http://www.steven-erikson.com/index.php/commentary-endgame-vol-1-and-2-by-derrick-jensen/ http://www.steven-erikson.com/index.php/commentary-endgame-v.... On the downside this is a rather long essay, on the plus side it does not require familiarity with the author's work.