Well the problem with letting this thing run itself out goes back to what my high school history teacher said, and I’ve posted this at least 3 or 4 times.
Toward the end of a civilization one sees the rise of the eunuch class, to the point they gain power (we just elected one in MN).
Having no investment in the future of the country/empire the eunuchs live only for the day. Their debauchery spreads to the rest of the population.
Then a more vigorous culture comes along and subjugates the population that cannot care a whit about its own future.
By the way most Republics last around 150 years. We are at that point.
Fair point. I certainly think out culture is “living in the moment” and taking whatever they can get without a lot of thought about coming generations. The eunuch problem may have a lot to do with that.