GLP-Jukebox

We do not learn from history because our studies are brief and prejudiced. In a surprising manner, 250 years emerges as the average length of national greatness. This average has not varied for 3,000years. The stages of the rise and fall of great nations seem to be:
The Age of Pioneers , The Age of Conquests ,The Age of Commerce ,The Age of Affluence ,The Age of Intellect ,The Age of Decadence.
Decadence is marked by: Defensiveness, Pessimism, Materialism,Frivolity An influx of foreigners The Welfare State A weakening of religion. Decadence is due to: Too long a period of wealth and power, Selfishness Love of money ,The loss of a sense of duty.
The life histories of great states are amazingly similar, and are due to internal factors. Their falls are diverse, because they are largely the result of external causes. - Sir John Glubb The Fate of Empires
We are at the end of the Age of Decadence heading into COLLAPSE

A word of caution to neophyte Martini drinkers: When taken to excess, this perfectly civilized drink can lead directly to uncivilized behavior.