Abstract things that change mankind

[Dom Tuk]

Just musing about what abstract notions have changed mankind. I can think of money. It is a concept that has revolutionised our planet and our lives and in these times it is nothing but a number in a computer and we hardly ever see it. Nations and civilisations are run by this concept of units in our name/account. I suspect something similar and untangible could be the next contribution to our life by alien species which will change our lives completely but which is yet unfathomable to our brains. Imagine telling someone before the advent of money that it will work and rule our lives. What do you think

[Pinotage]

Religion is an abstract idea that has a huge effect on human history.

 

You say that money nowadays  is nothing but a number in a computer and we hardly ever see it but coins and notes aren't money, they are a representation jas much as those symbols on your computer screen. A �5 note is only worth what others think its worth, otherwise its a useless peice of paper.

 

Not sure why aliens need to be involved - tho' if they did appear on Earth that might shake some religions. But abstract ideas that change the world can come from people - for example, Communism.

[Dom Tuk]

I meant something new...thats why the aliens. an idea that no one has thought of yet but can change the world like the concept of money.