It is essential to clarify that humans have not lived for thousands of years as individuals. While the human species, Homo sapiens, has been around for approximately 200,000 years, the average human lifespan has varied significantly throughout history. In ancient times, life expectancy was much lower due to factors such as limited access to healthcare, higher infant mortality rates, infectious diseases, and dangerous living conditions.
Now, to address the question of why we are not more advanced than we are, there are several reasons for this:
Gradual accumulation of knowledge: While the human species has been around for a long time, our scientific and technological progress has been a relatively recent development. The accumulation of knowledge and advancements in science, technology, and society takes time. It is a gradual process that builds on previous discoveries and innovations.
Cultural transmission and societal complexities: Human advancements are not solely determined by individual lifespans. Much of our progress comes from the ability to transmit knowledge and skills across generations through language, writing, and education. Complex societies and technologies often require collaboration and contributions from many individuals over time.
Environmental challenges and resource limitations: Throughout history, humans have faced various environmental challenges, ranging from climate changes to limited resources. These challenges can impede the pace of progress and may lead to the need to focus on immediate survival rather than long-term advancements.
Social, political, and economic factors: The progress of societies is also influenced by social, political, and economic factors. Societies that value education, innovation, and scientific inquiry tend to progress more rapidly than those constrained by factors like war, political instability, or restrictive ideologies.
Ethical considerations: As societies advance, ethical considerations come into play. Certain scientific and technological advancements require careful ethical deliberation to ensure they are used responsibly and for the greater good of humanity.
Innovation vs. implementation: Developing new ideas and technologies is one thing, but implementing them on a large scale can be complex and time-consuming. The diffusion of innovations across societies can take considerable effort and time.
Paradigm shifts and scientific breakthroughs: Major scientific breakthroughs and paradigm shifts can dramatically accelerate progress, but they are not predictable and often happen sporadically.
Despite these challenges, human society has made remarkable progress in various fields over the past few centuries. We have witnessed advances in medicine, technology, space exploration, communication, and understanding of the natural world. The trajectory of human progress is not linear, and it may fluctuate over time, but overall, the collective knowledge and achievements of humanity have steadily increased throughout history.