How Ancient Civilizations Still Influence Modern Society

By Logan Reed 3 min read

Ever paused to think about how often we interact with legacies from ancient civilizations without even realizing it? From counting our pennies to indulging in a spa day, the ancients play silent roles in our daily lives. Buckle up, folks! We’re about to embark on a journey back through time to uncover how these ancient practices and innovations still shape our world.

1. Numbers and Mathematics: Counting on the Babylonians

If you’ve ever stared blankly at a math problem hoping for divine intervention, you might have the Babylonians to thank. With their sexagesimal (base-60) system, these ancient innovators set the groundwork for our modern-day timekeeping. Think 60 seconds in a minute or 360 degrees in a circle; it all roots back to this system. For those of you who broke a sweat recalling Pythagoras, remember, he was just one of many ancient Greeks who contributed heavily to geometry. Quite literally, mathematics is almost a ‘Greek’ tragedy (or comedy, depending on your experience with algebra).

“The study of mathematics, like the Nile, begins in minuteness but ends in magnificence.” – Charles Caleb Colton

Practical tip: Next time you use a clock or try to fold a fitted sheet (a mathematical puzzle in itself), take a moment to appreciate the deep roots of these numerical systems.

2. Democracy: A Greek Gift

When you think of democracy, images of American elections might come to mind. But rewind a couple of thousand years to ancient Greece – they were the original architects of this political system. Albeit their version was a bit exclusionary, focusing mainly on male citizens, the core principle of giving a voice to the people stuck around and evolved. Thanks, Greek dudes! (And, erm, sorry to the women and non-land-owning folks who got left out initially.)

Practical tip: Engaging in civic duties, such as voting or community engagement, is participating in a tradition that goes back millennia. Why not throw a toga party with friends and discuss some modern-day political concerns?

3. Health and Medicine: The Wonders of Ayurveda

Have you ever sipped on turmeric latte or swathed yourself in essential oils? You’re tapping into ancient Indian wisdom! Ayurveda, a holistic healing system that dates back over 3,000 years, is the forebear of many modern wellness practices. It emphasizes balance, prevention, and natural treatments – a philosophy many turn to even in this age of laser treatments and apps for everything.

Practical tip: Embrace the ayurvedic approach by incorporating mindfulness, balanced diets, and natural remedies into your lifestyle. Pro tip: Next time someone suggests you eat kale for dinner, nod wisely and say, “Ah, my inner dosha shall thank me for this!”

4. Architecture: Standing on the Shoulders of Giants

Ever marveled at a skyscraper’s design? Much of today’s architectural aesthetics and techniques were inherited from ancient civilizations such as the Romans and Egyptians. From archways and aqueducts to concrete development, these innovations were nothing short of ancient engineering marvels. Those pyramid builders were clearly onto something!

Practical tip: On your next city break, delve into the local architectural history. Embrace a guided tour or simply ‘Google’ something new about a bridge’s design.

5. Writing and Literature: Scripting Our Stories

Scribes in ancient Mesopotamia wouldn’t have dreamed that their cuneiform marks on clay tablets would eventually transform into what we’re reading now. Whether taking notes or penning the next great novel, the human race has been painting with words since the dawn of civilization. And for you bookworms, let’s not forget the Egyptians for inventing the library – an introduction to information systems way before Google made it cool.

Practical tip: Engage in writing a personal journal or storytelling to connect with this timeless tradition. Conjure up stories and pen them down; maybe future archaeologists will dig up your collection!

Reflect and Act!

From politics to plumbing, it’s evident that ancient ingenuity was well ahead of its time. What can we learn? Respect traditions, adapt innovations, and remember that progression often starts by looking back. Be curious – explore how these ancient gifts affect your everyday life. Better yet, teach someone else the ‘ancient but still relevant’ trick you’ve discovered today.