It is possible that we are arguing two different things. I am not denying that progress took place. That is indisputable based solely on the examples you provid

It is possible that we are arguing two different things. I am not denying that progress took place. That is indisputable based solely on the examples you provided already. What I am saying is that this civilization that allowed it to eventually happen is not a fixed construct, but a continuous process that can go forward, stay unchanged or, just as easily, revert to its original starting point. The basic argument is that just because we currently did not have any massive atrocity ( lets say along the lines of Crusades, Khan or Mao ) does not mean we can't have one tomorrow. It is hard for me not to channel George Carlin now by saying something along the lines: "This civilization that you are so proud of. Do you realize how fragile all this is?" Please let me know if I am misreading your post.