Civilization certainly has made us more compliant, predictable, less scary to one another. But is this “better”? I say not. It has made us more cow-like.

The upside of civilization, and living in modern society is primarily sanitation. Access to clean facilities, clean showers, clean houses, flushing toilets, running water, clean water, clean drinking water, and trash pick up services is good. Also, access to modern day medicine, vaccines, surgery etc. Also, security and safety. Nobody could just steal your stuff without your permission; the upside of having police and judges and courts of law. Private property laws is good.

Also division of labor. I like how I don’t need to grow my own food or meat, or harvest things myself. I like the internet, and modern day digital tools and photography!

Then this is the barbell:

Harness all the upsides of modern day society and civilization, but remain a modern barbarian!