"civ·i·li·za·tion (sv-l-zshn)
n.
1. An advanced state of intellectual, cultural, and material development in human society, marked by progress in the arts and sciences, the extensive use of record-keeping, including writing, and the appearance of complex political and social institutions."

"Civilization (or civilisation) is a sometimes controversial term that has been used in several related ways. Primarily, the term has been used to refer to human cultures that are complex in terms of technology, science, and division of labor. Such civilizations are generally urbanized. In classical contexts civilized peoples were called this in contrast to "barbarian" peoples, while in modern contexts civilized peoples have been contrasted to "primitive" peoples."

"War – civilisation only functions through constant expansion. That means that neighbouring lands, people and resources have to be ‘absorbed’ to fuel the growth. Our civilisation is a culture of occupation – initially absorbing the surrounding countryside, enslaving the peasants to feed the the city’s inhabitants. Then absorbing neighbouring cities – their slaves, land & resources now feeding the conquerors."

" Civilization is a form of human culture in which many people live in urban centers, have mastered the art of smelting metals, and have developed a method of writing."

"The first civilizations began in cities, which were larger, more populated, and more complex in their political, economic and social structure than Neolithic villages."

"One definition of civilization requires that a civilized people have a sense of history -- meaning that the past counts in the present."

"Civilization is social order promoting cultural creation. Four elements constitute it: economic provision, political organization, moral traditions and the pursuit of knowledge and the arts. It begins where chaos and insecurity end. For when fear is overcome, curiosity and constructiveness are free, and man passes by natural impulse towards the understanding and embellishment of life."

So, does civilization have to do with art, war, record-keeping, complexity, history or the end of chaos and insecurity?

What is barbarism?