The Duality of Society: A Water Mill’s Reflection on Human Nature
In the annals of human history, the rhythm of societal behavior mirrors a paradoxical dance between unity and disintegration, survival and self-preservation. The metaphor of a water mill, perpetually spinning, captures this duality. In times of crisis, societies come together with remarkable speed, forging alliances and burying differences in the shared pursuit of survival. Yet, in the tranquil aftermath of conflict, these same societies exhibit a tendency to fragment, as individuals and groups prioritize personal autonomy and distinctiveness over collective unity. The Unifying Force of Survival When the fabric of society is threatened, whether by external invasion, economic collapse, or natural disasters, an instinctual drive for survival overrides individual differences. The recent COVID-19 pandemic offers a striking example. As the virus spread globally, societies across the world rallied in an unprecedented display of solidarity. Healthcare workers became the heroes of our time, go