Guess which stage we are in now? 1. Hard Times Create Strong Men: During periods of crisis—war, economic collapse, or societal upheaval—people are forced to develop resilience, discipline, and resourcefulness. These “strong men” (and women, though the phrase is gendered) prioritize survival, community, and collective action, often rising to meet challenges through sacrifice and grit. Examples include societies rebuilding after major conflicts, like post-World War II recovery in Europe or Japan. 2. Strong Men Create Good Times: The strength, work ethic, and unity of these individuals lead to prosperity, stability, and cultural flourishing. Infrastructure improves, economies grow, and societies enjoy peace and abundance. This is seen in eras like the post-war economic boom in the U.S. or the Pax Romana in ancient Rome. 3. Good Times Create Weak Men: Prosperity breeds complacency. In times of abundance, newer generations, insulated from hardship, may prioritize comfort, individualism, or short-term pleasures over discipline or long-term planning. Values like resilience or sacrifice may erode, leading to societal decadence or fragility. Critics often point to late-stage empires, like Rome before its fall, as examples. 4. Weak Men Create Hard Times: This weakened state—marked by division, lack of civic virtue, or inability to confront challenges—leads to societal decline. Economic stagnation, political corruption, or external threats exploit these vulnerabilities, ushering in new crises. Historical parallels might include the fall of empires or modern examples of societal polarization and institutional decay.