Wikipedia: A civilization is any complex society characterized by urban development, social stratification, symbolic systems of communication (for example, writing systems), and a perceived separation from and domination over the natural environment.
Ghandi: "A nation's greatness is measured by how it treats its weakest members."
"Racing the clock on global warming, civilization is in the midst of a profound transition in the ways we produce and use energy. Nothing less than the fate of the world hangs in the balance." (David Baker, SF Chronicle Book Review, June 10, 2018)
"Better to Light a Candle Than to Curse the Darkness" (Peter Benenson, Amnesty International founder)