In "The Revenge of Geography," Robert D. Kaplan discusses how the ancient world was characterized by low population density, allowing nature to remain prominent and largely untouched by human activity. This suggests that early human societies existed in a balanced relationship with their environments, where natural landscapes played a crucial role in shaping their lives and cultures. The interaction between geography and humanity is a central theme in understanding historical developments.

Kaplan emphasizes that the intricate dynamics of geography influence contemporary conflicts and societal structures. By highlighting this relationship, he argues that recognizing the impact of geography on human behavior can provide insights into future challenges. The idea that the ancient world allowed nature to flourish underscores the importance of geographical factors in shaping civilizations throughout history.