Comment: Are the prototypes irrelevant?
             History is always important regardless of its contemporary applications because history teaches us about the potential of human behavior. The lessons learned from a failed institution give us insight into the trials and tribulations of man; in essence trial and error is necessary for growth. Indeed there is debate of what historical civilization have influenced the most to our contemporary world while others seem buried, aware to us, but not practical.
             The Greek civilization, based upon my education from History of Western Civilization, I believe, probably influenced our time the most. The Greeks implemented an oligarchy (semi-democracy) that allowed individuals to contribute to politics. The polis is similar to a community presently and the characteristics of individuality, pride, manliness, and honor to ones culture or country still resides in the people today. Another major influence was through the systematic study of the sciences. Socrates, Plato, Aristotle, and others have shaped our train of thought.
             The Roman Empire resembles too much like Communism while the feudal system during the Middle Ages seems the most remote in America. Despite these differences, the influence of religion, i.e. Christianity, Islam, have not waned terribly.
             I believe in the future the combination of the civilizations or prototypes will somehow be implemented however small. More so in the future, we will use our knowledge of the past to guide us hopefully for the better.
             ------------------------------------------------------------------------
             ...