The Lessons Of History -

Redistribution occurs, either through (reform) or revolution (violence).

Wealth concentration is inevitable in any society because of the natural inequality of human ability. The Durants observe that history follows a cycle: Wealth concentrates until it becomes untenable. The Lessons of History

Nature favors those better equipped to survive; inequality is a natural byproduct of diversity in ability. Nature favors those better equipped to survive; inequality

Human nature remains remarkably constant. While technology evolves, the fundamental motives of men—hunger, sex, vanity, and power—remain the same. Therefore, the "progress" of a civilization is often just the refinement of the means used to achieve ancient ends. Therefore, the "progress" of a civilization is often

"The Lessons of History" (1968) is a concise survey of human history by Will and Ariel Durant. Distilled from their 11-volume The Story of Civilization , the book identifies recurring patterns in human behavior across 5,000 years.