I have been wondering about our civilization and its trajectory throughout History. What if the Industrial Revolution occurred in 500 AD rather than 1800. Wasn't our main limitation between that time period a lack of science, reason, and freedom and property rights? From a research point of view, we are way behind on China (historical context here not scientific research)-but what if Rome embraced these concepts? What if the entire world adopted them in 1800? Imagine our wealth, including in knowledge. I was wondering if any of you think about that. I am inundated by news, the net, our own government that I should limit how I create by my use of resources, expect less from systems, plant my own food...in case California dries up and can't do that job for me. hmmm. How much of our history were the creators and dreamers and doers told to stand down and expect more shortages, learn less?
[edited for clarity on China comment ]

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