ght and retarded
progress.

Among other elements of civilization must be mentioned (7) _social
well-being_. The preceding conditions would be almost certain to
insure social well-being and prosperity. Yet it might be possible,
through lack of harmony of these forces, on account of their improper
distribution in a community, that the group might lack in general
social prosperity. Unless there is general contentment and happiness
there cannot be said to be an ideal state of civilization. And this
social well-being is closely allied to (8) _material prosperity_, the
most apparent element to be mentioned in the present analysis. The
amount of the accumulation of the wealth of a nation, its distribution
among the people, and the manner in which it is obtained and expended,
determine the state of civilization. This material prosperity makes
the better phases of civilization possible. It is essential to modern
progress, and our civilization should seek to render it possible for
all classes to earn their bread and to have leisure and opportunity for
self-culture.

The mastery of the forces of nature is the basis for man's {14}
material prosperity. Touching nature here and there, by discovery,
invention, and toil, causing her to yield her treasures for his
service, is the key to all progress. In this, it is not so much
conflict with nature as co-operation with her, that yields utility and
eventually mastery. The discovery and use of new food products, the
coal and other minerals of the earth, the forests, the water power and
electric power, coupled with invention and adaptability to continually
greater use, are the qualifying opportunity for advancement. Without
these the fine theories of the philosopher, exalted religious belief,
and high ideals of life are of no avail.

From the foregoing it may be said that civilization in its fulness
means all of the acquired capabilities of man as evidenced by his
conduct and the material products arising from his physical and mental
exertion. It is evident that at first the structure called
civilization began to develop very slowly and very feebly; just when it
began it is difficult to state. The creation of the first utility, the
first substantial movement to increase the food supply, the first home
for protection, the first religious ceremony, or the first organized
household, represents the beginnings of civilization, and these are the
landmarks along the trail of man's