The Quest for Survival: How Dominance Becomes the Path to Survival

Many find it easy to place the blame for global dominance solely on countries like the United States. However, it is crucial to understand that the desire for dominance is not a unique trait of America or any single nation. The roots of this craving can be traced back to the very origins of Europe and its colonial past. In the context of the global arena, understanding this desire requires delving into the mechanisms of survival and the historical examples that underscore this phenomenon.

Domination as an Extension of European History

To understand why one country might desire to take over the whole world, we must look to the historical examples of European powers, particularly Great Britain and ancient civilizations. The phrase "The sun never sets on the British Empire!" epitomizes the extent of imperial overreach, where territories spanned across multiple continents and ensured that the sun was always shining over some part of the empire. This historical precedent underscores the idea that the drive for dominance is not confined to a single nation but has deep roots in the past.

Survival as the Core Motivation

At the heart of the desire for dominance lies the quest for survival. The concept of "survival of the fittest," often invoked in biology, has direct parallels in human societies, particularly in Europe. Throughout history, Europe has been a stage where survival and dominance have been closely intertwined. For instance, during the early days, Europe was a patchwork of scattered nomadic groups. It wasn't until the rise of cities in areas like the Italian and Greek peninsulas that larger community structures began to form. This early form of social organization laid the groundwork for the later stages of conquest and domination.

The Greek Example: Survival Through Unity

The Greeks provide a fascinating case study in the pursuit of dominance and survival. Ancient Greece was a collection of city-states, each with its own distinct culture and leadership. Conflict and rivalry among these city-states were common, with notable examples such as the Peloponnesian War, where Sparta and Athens engaged in a significant conflict. Despite their animosity, these city-states often united under a common cause when faced with external threats. One of the most significant examples is Alexander the Great's unification of the Hellenic Empire, which stemmed from the threat posed by Persia.

Roman Influence on Survival Through Conquest

The rise of the Roman Republic and subsequent Empire further cemented the idea that dominance and survival were inherently linked. Rome’s strategy of conquest allowed it to grow in power, providing security and resources that ensured its survival. Even in its decline, the idea of an expansive empire remained a cornerstone of European thought. The fall of the Western Roman Empire and the subsequent Dark Ages were periods of regression, but the lessons learned during these times reinforced the importance of dominance for survival.

Modern Implications: The American Example

The phrase famously uttered by Black Panther, "The world is changing. Soon there will only be the conquerors and the conquered. I'd rather be the former," encapsulates the modern-day mentality of survival through dominance. For countries like the United States, the belief that conquering ensures survival has been ingrained over generations. This belief stems from a long history of empires and leaders advocating for the expansion of their territories as a means to protect national interests.

Conclusion

Understanding the historical roots of the desire for global dominance is crucial for grasping the motivations behind such actions. Whether it is the example of ancient Greece or the rise of the British and Roman empires, the underlying theme has consistently been the pursuit of survival through domination. As we move forward, it is essential to acknowledge these historical precedents and consider their implications in contemporary global politics.