"Una civilización que deja insatisfecha a una gran cantidad de sus participantes y los lleva a la rebelión, ni tiene ni merece la perspectiva de una existencia duradera."

When a society fails to meet the needs of many of its people, leading them to dissatisfaction and rebellion, it’s essentially signing its own death warrant. This idea is simple but profound: if too many people in a community feel left out, angry, or ignored, the society as a whole is in trouble.

Consider the historical context. This notion really took center stage during times of great social upheaval, like the revolutions in France in the late 18th century or even the civil rights movements in the U.S. in the 1960s. When significant portions of the population feel unheard and oppressed, they push back. And often, this pushback isn’t just a polite request for change—it’s full-blown revolt.

Think about the Arab Spring. In 2010, a wave of protests spread across the Arab world, driven by widespread dissatisfaction with existing regimes. People were frustrated with corruption, economic challenges, and lack of political freedom. The protests led to significant changes in some countries, like Tunisia, while causing ongoing conflict and instability in others, like Syria. The dissatisfaction of the masses reached a boiling point, and the existing governments faced dire consequences.

So, how do you apply this wisdom in everyday life? Simple. Pay attention to the voices around you. If you’re a leader, manager, or even just part of a group, ensure everyone feels heard and valued. It’s about empathy and inclusion. If your team at work feels overworked and underappreciated, you’re headed for trouble. Their dissatisfaction can lead to low morale, poor performance, or even a mass exodus.

Now, let’s get a bit more personal. Imagine you’re part of a tight-knit club or a group project. You’ve noticed a couple of members are growing increasingly unhappy. They feel their ideas are ignored, and their contributions undervalued. If the rest of the group continues to dismiss their concerns, what happens? Resentment builds, and soon, those members might stop participating, or worse, actively work against the group’s goals. The project could fail, and friendships might be damaged.

Here’s a relatable story. Think about your family gatherings. Imagine if every year, your cousin Jane is tasked with cooking the entire Thanksgiving meal while others relax and watch football. Jane’s frustration grows each year. She feels unappreciated and overburdened. Eventually, she might snap—deciding not to show up at all, or if she does, it’s not with the same warmth and enthusiasm. Suddenly, your family’s cherished tradition is at risk. Addressing her concerns, sharing the workload, and showing appreciation could prevent that breakdown.

In essence, the message is clear: listen, value, and act. Show people they matter. Whether you’re running a country, a company, or just trying to keep a group of friends together, neglecting the needs and voices of those involved can lead to a breakdown. It’s not just about avoiding revolt; it’s about building a community where everyone feels they belong. So next time you notice someone’s dissatisfaction, don’t ignore it. Take action—because a society, team, or family that leaves its members feeling unsatisfied won’t last long.