Sounds like something the old queen bird of libertarianism would say.
I always liked Douglas Adams’ take on civilization: That it is only possible with alcohol and indoor plumbing.
Heh, heh! To which I would add, the means of refrigeration.
The most advanced ancient cultures knew how to cut ice in winter and store it for use during the summer months.
Rome’s aqueducts flushed their streets as much as they provided potable water.
As for alcohol’s civilizing influence, I give you today’s Muslim world & its lack thereof.