In the end what will happen will be what has happened whenever a civilization breaks up. The people who have brains and courage come through and the ones who haven't are winnowed out.

Never pass up new experiences [Scarlett], They enrich the mind." - Rhett Butler

That is the one unforgivable sin in any society. Be different and be damned!

You are a child if you thought I didn’t know, for all your smothering yourself under that hot lap robe. Of course, I knew. Why else do you think I’ve been—” He stopped suddenly and a silence fell between them. He picked up the reins and clucked to the horse.

It was not often that she was alone like this and she did not like it. When she was alone she had to think and, these days, thoughts were not so pleasant.

[T]he merciful adjustment which nature makes when what cannot be cured must be endured.

I've always had a weakness for lost causes once they're really lost.