Figure 2.
Three scenarios for the evolution of a civilization on a burnout trajectory. Top: Δtwindow < 0. In this scenario, the civilization does not realize its trajectory before it suffers from burnout. Middle: Δtwindow > 0, but Δtwindow/Δtaccomplishment < 1. In this scenario, the civilization realizes it is on a trajectory but is unable to accomplish a reorientation towards homeostasis before burnout. Bottom: Δtwindow > 0, and Δtwindow/Δtaccomplishment > 1. In this scenario, the civilization is able to both understand that it is on a burnout trajectory and is able to reorient towards prioritizing homeostasis.