The term "civilization" is a somewhat ambiguous one. It can refer to various kinds of human societies. It may also refer to a form of culture or a standard of behavior, all of which may have value-laden connotations. In general, it refers to a society's ability to create a standard of behavior and achieve certain kinds of goals.
It is a complex human society
Human civilization is a complex human society that is characterized by certain characteristics, including social hierarchy, economic output, and division of labor. Human civilizations are often composed of different cities, and are often the result of centuries of gradual development. The first civilizations emerged when people began settling in cities and developing urban culture. However, defining the boundaries of civilization is difficult.
It is a form of culture
Civilization is a term used to describe a complex society with a high degree of culture. Civilizations tend to have complex customs, laws, and manufactured products. Some civilizations also develop elaborate forms of government and have social classes. Unlike most societies, civilizations usually retain the authority of a ruling elite.
It is a standard of behavior
The concept of civilization refers to a complex society that has developed its own ideas, customs, arts, and social institutions. Each society develops its own ways of doing things, but some civilizations are more complex than others. These societies have developed more elaborate ways of life, including literature, professional arts, organized religion, and complex social customs associated with elites.
It has value-laden connotations
The word 'civilization' is a powerful, but often misused term in today's world. It has been a popular term in Western discourse since the end of the Cold War, and has gained renewed importance in recent years, particularly in relation to the Islamic world. However, the word carries many value-laden connotations.
It is a process
A civilization is a region of a society characterized by its way of life. This way of life has influenced others, and the political structures associated with a civilization have spread across the world. For example, the Chinese civilization influenced other nearby civilizations. Ultimately, the civilization a person lives in forms their broadest cultural identity.
It is a single entity
Civilization appears as a separate entity, but it is an extension of humankind. It is a system of expectations and demands that has developed through time. The result is an overt civilization that demands too much of humans, and it is often premature. It also imposes its decisions on children, whose intelligence is limited.