The chimera of the Kardashev scale

We’ve always looked out and up. But that process always ended up with us tumbling down. Because there are many thresholds before we step through the gates of Heavens.

So what’s with Kardashev and his scale? To quote wikipedia:

The Kardashev scale is a method of measuring a civilization’s level of technological advancement based on the amount of energy they are able to use. The measure was proposed by Soviet astronomer Nikolai Kardashev in 1964. The scale has three designated categories:

- A Type 1civilization, also called a planetary civilization — can use and store all of the energy available on its planet.
- A Type 2 civilization, also called a stellar civilization — can use and control energy at the scale of its stellar system.
- A Type 3 civilization, also called a galactic civilization — can control energy at the scale of its entire host galaxy.

Don’t get me wrong, it’s great that we theorize. It’s even greater that we try to unmask the veils that surround us. But you know, something entirely else would be truly wondrous.

And that is being painfully true to ourselves.

We’re not even a Type 0 civilization, as that would require focusing our energy and intent on a planetary scale. Proof? Our countries wage wars. Our industry and agriculture pollute the entire planet.

We’re not even a Type -1 civilization, as that would require focusing our energy and intent on a country scale. Proof? Our states are lead by people that abuse their power and envision nothing but obedient subjects. We let them elect themselves or simply delude ourselves that we vote for them charge.

We’re not even a Type -2 civilization, as that would require focusing our energy and intent on a family scale. Proof? Our families are broken or fail even before starting. We educate our kids as if they’re either pets or gods.

We’re not even a Type -3 civilization, as that would require focusing our energy and intent on a personal scale. Proof? We waste our valuable time and resources on trinkets and status. We kill our bodies with bad nutrients and drugs.

It’s like many of my teachers used to say: one can go build astonishing temples but if cornerstones are missing, all will crumble.

So stop looking up. Look down. Look deep. The more you look, the nearer the Heavens will draw.