[who_would_fardels_bear]

This four-part-repeating cycle idea is not new.

"The Fate of Empires" written by John Glubb Pasha had this theory.

Likewise "When the Empire Strikes Out" by Goetz.

There was a book that came out in the early nineties with this theme claiming the end was near. If I remember right the four archetypal ages favored the businessman, then the poor, then the warrior, and then the artist/priest. I guess we would be transitioning from the age of the businessman to the age of the pauper right about now.

Evidently that book was a bit premature. I wish I could remember the title though. It was written by an Indian gentleman probably based on Glubb Pasha's theories.

[parsifal]

Fascinating. I don’t recall ever reading about Glubb, although I did read a book about the Long Range Desert Patrols or something. Frankly, I am years behind on my serious reading and doubt I can ever catch up.

Toynbee awaits, in the room out back. Along with a gadzillion others. So many books. So little time.

parsy, who says thanks for shoring his memory the other day!