If civilization is to survive, we must cultivate the science of

"If civilization is to survive, we must cultivate the science of human relationships - the ability of all peoples, of all kinds, to live together, in the same world at peace." These powerful words, spoken by Franklin D. Roosevelt, are a call to the deepest truth of the human condition. In them, Roosevelt speaks not just to the immediate challenges of his time, but to a universal, timeless principle: the future of our civilization depends not on the advancement of technology or the accumulation of wealth, but on our ability to understand one another, to live together in harmony, and to cultivate the art of human relationships. It is a reminder that the true measure of progress lies not in how far we can reach into the heavens or how much we can conquer, but in how well we can build connections with those around us, how we can bridge the gaps between cultures, races, and nations.

In the ancient world, the greatest philosophers and thinkers knew that the survival and prosperity of humanity rested upon the strength of its relationships. The Greeks, in particular, spoke of philia, the deep bond of friendship and love between individuals, as the foundation of a just society. Aristotle, in his Nicomachean Ethics, emphasized the importance of virtue and good will in human relationships, seeing them as the glue that held communities together. Socrates taught his followers that wisdom came not only from intellectual pursuit but from the ability to engage with others in meaningful dialogue. The Romans, too, understood the importance of unity in maintaining the strength of the empire, where the relationship between ruler and subject, and between the peoples of different cultures, determined the success of their civilization. Roosevelt, in invoking the science of human relationships, echoes this ancient wisdom—reminding us that, if we are to endure, we must first learn to live together as one people.

Roosevelt’s words were spoken at a time when the world was recovering from the devastation of the Second World War, a time when humanity’s capacity for violence and division had been starkly revealed. The wars of the past, both ancient and modern, have shown us the dangers of disunity. The conflicts that have torn apart nations and empires were often born from misunderstandings, hatred, or the inability to reconcile differences. The fall of Rome, the destruction wrought by the World Wars, the slavery and oppression that have plagued human societies—each of these tragedies highlights the devastating consequences of failing to cultivate healthy relationships between peoples. Yet, even in the darkest chapters of history, there have been those who have risen above the divisions, showing us what is possible when people, despite their differences, choose to work together in peace. Roosevelt’s call, then, is not just a plea for peace in his time, but a vision for the future—one where humanity finally learns to live in harmony with itself.

Consider the legacy of Nelson Mandela, whose efforts to end apartheid in South Africa were rooted in his belief in the power of reconciliation and mutual understanding. After spending 27 years imprisoned by a regime that sought to divide races and cultures, Mandela emerged not with vengeance, but with a call for unity. He knew that for South Africa to thrive, its people—black and white, rich and poor—must learn to live together in peace. His leadership was grounded in a deep understanding of human relationships, and he sought to heal the wounds of a nation torn apart by hatred. Mandela’s example shows us the truth of Roosevelt’s vision—that the true power of civilization lies not in force or domination, but in the ability to reconcile, to listen, and to work together for the common good. It is through the cultivation of understanding that peace becomes not just an ideal, but a living reality.

Roosevelt’s call for the science of human relationships is not merely an abstract concept, but a practical guide for how we must live today. In a world that is increasingly interconnected, the challenges we face—be it climate change, economic inequality, or global conflict—are not problems that can be solved through the actions of a single nation or group. They require the cooperation of all peoples, from all walks of life. Science, in its purest form, does not exist in isolation; it is born from collaboration, from the exchange of ideas across cultures, and from the understanding that human progress is a collective endeavor. If we are to solve the great challenges of our age, we must embrace the art of human relationships—learning to communicate, to cooperate, and to rise above the differences that divide us.

The lesson from Roosevelt’s words is clear: if we are to survive as a species, we must learn to live together as one global community. The survival of civilization does not depend on technological advancement alone, but on the strength of our relationships with one another. We must cultivate the ability to understand, to empathize, and to build bridges between peoples. Just as science progresses through the collaboration of minds, so too must we progress as a species through the collaboration of hearts. Whether in our families, our communities, or on the global stage, the true power of humanity lies not in our ability to conquer, but in our ability to unite.

In your own life, ask yourself: How can I contribute to building stronger relationships? How can I engage with others, especially those who are different from me, in a way that promotes understanding and peace? Whether through small acts of kindness, open dialogue, or working for justice, each of us has the power to make a difference. Let Roosevelt’s call to cultivate the science of human relationships guide your actions. Civilization will only thrive when we choose to understand each other, to forgive, and to work together for the common good. The future of humanity is in our hands, and it is through our relationships, our compassion, and our shared efforts that we will ensure it endures.