By Paul Weiser
Modern theory posits that evolution proceeds by leaps and bounds - or rather, by leaps (saltation) separated by very much longer periods of stability. This "punctuated equilibrium" suggests several lines of thought.
First, consider that species stabilize in geographic and genetic isolation between punctuations (which suddenly pit genetic populations against each other by merging geographic environments). This reverses the ecologist's order of virtue which values "diversity" over "monoculture" - for "diversity" only exists during those brief punctuations, to be smothered once more in the harmonious and happy monoculture (all tigers are tigers, there are no half-lions) the invading victors- in-punctuation establish. Monoculture is the way of life; diversity is the short-lived way of war and death.
But how is a species (or a culture) to both live well in times of equilibrium and triumph in the cataclysms of punctuation? First, it must self-control (formalize) its intra-species or intra-cultural violence and acquisitiveness during long eras of equilibrium. Second, it must retain its ability to mete out death and destruction when a punctuation makes conflict unavoidable. Third, while at war it must retain peacetime/equilibrium-state self-control among its fighting members. This is difficult but - wolf packs and the classic Western military come to mind - it can be achieved.
Finally, consider the case of Islam, that failed religion. Its self-proclaimed intra-cultural peace, coupled with war to the knife against all unbelievers (dar al islam/dar al harb) once made it a strong contender for hegemony. But now its attempts to express extra-cultural defensive aggression only show, by their suicidal weakness, that its extinction approaches.
So here we are, heirs to a brilliantly successful culture, facing others which are masses of corruption. We need only (though it is not easy!) avoid corruption ourselves and maintain our ability to destroy when necessary: fear God, and keep our powder dry.
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