Signs of a Civilization in Decline
- Krista Bontrager
- Apr 26
- 3 min read
We are so excited to introduce you to our brother and historian, Dr. Glenn Sunshine. You don't want to miss this AMAZING conversation about civilization, our nation, its future, and the biblical blueprint for cultural renewal.
On tonight’s show, we talked to historian, Dr. Glenn Sunshine, and discussed signs of civilizational decline, focusing on Western civilization. Drawing from historical examples (e.g., Rome, pre-revolutionary France) and biblical principles, Dr. Sunshine identifies key factors contributing to societal collapse, including eroded sexual mores, destabilizing ideologies, unchecked immigration, and economic mismanagement.
Q. What is the definition of a civilization?
A civilization is a society with complex social, economic, and political organization, held together by shared values. Biblically, large societies (e.g., Babel, Egypt) are often critiqued.
Q. What are some historical examples of fallen civilizations?
All civilizations are mortal (C.S. Lewis).
J.D. Unwin’s study of 84 societies shows that loosening sexual norms for three generations leads to collapse.
Rome’s fall involved declining birth rates and decadence.
Q. What were some warning signs in Rome’s fall?
Rome’s decline included declining birth rates, decadence, and loss of values post-50 BC. Marriage and children foster future-oriented societies, which Rome lacked.
Q. Is there a connection between affluence and fewer children?
Affluence correlates with lower birth rates, seen in Rome and among Christians, who often adopt cultural norms over scriptural mandates (e.g., Genesis).
Q. How does ideology relate to cultural decline?
Ideologies rejecting societal norms (e.g., Voltaire in France, critical theory today) destabilize civilizations. Critical theory’s oppressor-oppressed framework fosters revolutionary ideas.
Q. What is the role of modern institutions?
Schools, media, and government are captured by critical theory and postmodernism, undermining truth and cohesion. This creates division and backlash (e.g., Andrew Tate, white nationalism).
Q. Is the West in decline?
Yes…Europe is further along due to technocratic policies and open borders. America is divided, with revolutionary rhetoric and political violence risks. Trump’s policies may delay decline, but his cult of personality poses concerns.
Q. What is the church’s role in this moment?
The church should pursue God’s kingdom, not solely civilization’s preservation. Faithful living (e.g., Wilberforce’s reforms) may transform culture, but outcomes are God’s will.
Conclusion:
Dr. Sunshine identifies five signs of decline:
1. Loose sexual mores and loosening restrictions around marriage and sexual values.
2. A belief that society is not redeemable or able to be fixed.
3. Division of humans into separate categories (ex. oppressed vs. oppressor).
4. Economic deficit, mass government spending.
5. Unchecked immigration from people who are culturally different and unwilling to assimilate.
Rome’s fall parallels modern Western challenges. Christians should live biblically, trusting God with cultural outcomes.
Resources:
Psychology Today article mentioned, "Is Western Society in Decline?":
Books by Dr. Glenn Sunshine:
"Why You Think The Way You Do":
"Slaying Leviathan: Limited Government and Resistance in the Christian Tradition": https://www.amazon.com/Slaying-Leviathan-Government-Resistance-Christian/dp/195241072X/ref=monarch_sidesheet_title
Connect with the Guest:
Follow Dr. Sunshine's work at his website, Every Square Inch:
Podcast: The Theology Pugcast:
FB: Glenn Sunshine
X: @glenn_sunshine
Sponsor:
Tonight's show is brought to you by the Center for Biblical Unity and Theology Mom podcast.
Be sure to like, subscribe, buy some merch, and support the family!
We have some great merch that helps support the ministries of CFBU and Theology Mom. For every shirt purchased, approximately $10 goes to support the ministry of CFBU or the family business.
Comments