ABSTRACT
This chapter begins with reflections of human technological development rooted in mythological tales, then presents texts in which later, more complex cultures, by comparing their own state of existence to that of known peoples with less-structured technology shelves, comprehend that they themselves had once been a simple society. This evolution from simple to complex civilisation is explained via three major methods. First, legend and myth are used to explain technological advance through the direct intervention or gift of divinities. Prometheus, Hephaistos, Dionysos, and Athena are prominent benefactors, who are eventually replaced by “advanced cultures” that become the agent of development for more pristine civilisations. Second, nature and natural phenomena provide conditions in which humans obtain their technological achievements. Generally, the texts imply a more scientific analysis of the progress, for good or ill, of the human race, attributing major steps in development not to human ability but to random elements beyond their control. Third, the rise of civilisation is considered a natural evolution, in which the unique human species with its unique abilities and urban development is forced by necessity and driven by its intelligence and desires to improve its condition with technological innovations and advances. Humans are often regarded as initially helpless, but with their unique skills they do not merely survive but advance against all odds. The evolution of civilisation involved various special qualities that are listed with reasonable consistency by our sources: thought, use of hands, speech, laws, writing, and the use of fire.
