Maybe if someone here can figure out what I am trying to say they would be kind enough to rewrite my question.
My question is different cultures advanced at different rates throughout history. Has there been any research done as to what periods of history or development has been the most stimulating for a particular culture mentaly. Such as after iron or other metals were discovered. Or after the discovery of the wheel, or ofter the discovery of electricity for instance.
The reason for the question is I often hear we lack mental stimulation today and our brains are possibly missing out on some important phases of early development that might affect our behavior as adults.
Really? I think the average Joe is bombarded with mental stimulation through digital media. Heck, if nothing else it means people are constantly reading stuff. Beats the hell out of being an illiterate farm labourer which most of my ancestors were.
I imagine the Arab world of the ages before 1000 AD would have been pretty stimulating: amazing advances in mathematics, medicine, etc., and a real mingling of cultures under mostly tolerant authorities.
You may be right, applied mathematics can be very stimulating and exciting. I look at architecture as another great source of stimulation and creativity. My kids grew up in the video game era. They played sports and video games. When I was a kid it seemed we spent a lot more time out doors in nature, figuring ways to catch animals, building forts, and just all the things kids do when they are in nature. We used our imagination a lot. Maybe they still do but just not in a way I can relate to.
Without any proof, I’d guess that “golden age” is roughly equivalent to what you’re talking about. The sweet spot when things have just become peaceful and prosperous.