Civilizations often arise in geographically favorable areas, such as Mesopotamia and the Nile Delta, where agriculture is supported by natural resources.

Technological advancements have historically played a crucial role in warfare, influencing the outcomes of battles and the rise and fall of empires.

The conflict of ideas is central to warfare, and understanding this can lead to better strategies than just physical force.

The Punic Wars were primarily driven by geography, with the first major conflict over control of Sicily between Rome and Carthage.

Civil wars are devastating and often result in the destruction of one's own infrastructure, even if fought for a good reason.

Civilization could end with a bang, like World War III, or a whimper, like a demographic collapse. It's crucial to consider these risks.

The history of warfare has been dominated by leaders who are insulated from the battlefield, but advancements in surveillance technology may change this dynamic.

War is fundamentally about human beings and their relationships, not just political or economic factors.

Most wars throughout history were fought between kings, queens, and dictators, not between major democracies, suggesting that the spread of technology could lead to less intense and less frequent conflicts.