@philosophyminis: Many stories involve a rise and fall. #Icarus flying to the sun before crashing into the sea. #Elvis Presley rock and rolling himself to a tragic and early death. But one of the greatest examples of this is found in history. It's found in what's known as the ‘Empire Cycle,’ and it goes back to the philosopher Ibn Khaldun. #IbnKhaldun argued that the #power of any dynasty comes from its ‘aṣabiyya,’ or its social cohesion. This is the unity or bond between a tribe, a nation, or a people. An aṣabiyya is usually strongest in harsh conditions and when in opposition, and it weakens when it settles down into a life of complacent luxury. Ibn Khaldun argued that any empire will, within five generations, degenerate and in turn be overthrown. First, there is the sweeping conquest of a self-confident and cohesive aṣabiyya people. Second, there is a turn from a more community-based rule to a consolidated power in a government. Third, there is the golden age of a wise and prosperous rule of a good administration. Fourth, there is the creep of overconfidence, vanity, corruption and selfishness in a culture. And finally, there is the defeat and loss of power to a new aṣabiyya group. Ibn Khaldun’s sociological approach to history is now the norm, and his empire cycle applies to all empires, dynasties, and governments throughout time. It's as relevant today as it was for 14th century caliphates. #history #sociology #empires #philosophy

Jonny Thomson

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Region: GB

Monday 18 November 2024 16:14:30 GMT