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Ancestor Quote by Will Durant

“The dog that buried the bone which even a canine appetite could not manage, the squirrel that gathered nuts for a later feast, the bees that filled the comb with honey, the ants that laid up stores for a rainy day - these were among the first creators of civilization. It was they…who taught our…” quote by Will Durant
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“The dog that buried the bone which even a canine appetite could not manage, the squirrel that gathered nuts for a later feast, the bees that filled the comb with honey, the ants that laid up stores for a rainy day - these were among the first creators of civilization. It was they…who taught our ancestors the art of providing for tomorrow out of the surplus of today, or of preparing for winter in summer's time of plenty.”

Will Durant

About This Quote

Source Book: The Story of Civilization, Volume I, 1935

Early animals displayed foresight by storing food, teaching humans to plan for future scarcity.

In simple terms: Animals stored food, showing future planning.

Key Takeaway

Learn to save and plan ahead.

Themes

foresight preparation civilization resource management

Mood

reflective inspirational pragmatic

Type

advice historical observational

When to use this quote

  • personal finance
  • food storage
  • emergency preparedness
  • environmental sustainability

Key Concepts

animal behavior surplus theory future planning

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you apply animal foresight to modern challenges?
  • What resources can you store today for future security?
A Different Perspective

Human societies also need innovation, not just storage, to thrive.

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