Factors Contributing to the Fall of the Western Civilization: an Analytical and Sociological Study Based on the Theory of the German Philosopher Oswald Spalinger

Abstract

This study aimed at determining the fate of the contemporary Western civilization in light of the challenges which it is encountering and the factors contributing to its fall as predicted by German philosopher Oswald Spalinger. The study concluded that Western civilization is undergoing the phase of the death agony after achieving remarkable scientific and cultural feats, according to the pessimistic theory of Spalinger on the fate of this civilization.The study also concluded that according to the Spalinger theory, civilizations usually undergo the same life cycle as living organisms do: birth, growth, youth, old age, and death. For example, ancient civilizations will undergo the same phases and will be replaced with a new civilization. The study also agreed with Spalinger's forecast of the fall of Western civilization after reaching the climax of innovation and technological advancement. He points out that Western civilization has already begun to encounter numerous problems, such as terrorism, the economic crisis, drugs, violence, the breakdown of the family, pollution, and immorality. These are signs that Western civilization is undergoing the death agony.The study has further noted that English philosopher Arnold Toynbee differed with Spalinger's pessimistic outlook to the fate of Western civilization. Toynbee believes that the civilization which reaches the phase of fall can rise once again and flourish after coping with the challenges posed to it. Civilization once again passes through the same life cycle of birth and old age. Toynbee argues that an innovative minority appears and can rescue Western civilization and stop the process of its demise, provided that two important factors are provided, i.e. Faith and science, and this is the crux of the struggle between East and West.