There's a quote I recall that applies here: "Barbarism is thinking you know what's true and not tolerating anyone saying differently. Civilization is thinking you know what's true, but being open-minded about the possibility of being wrong. Decadence is believing there is no truth, and that one lie is as good as another."
For example:
Barbarism: "All buildings must be built in this style."
Civilization: "I prefer this style of building, but you might be able to persuade me about the merits of other styles."
Decadence: "Nothing is objectively ugly or beautiful. The new building isn't any worse, just different."
There's a quote I recall that applies here: "Barbarism is thinking you know what's true and not tolerating anyone saying differently. Civilization is thinking you know what's true, but being open-minded about the possibility of being wrong. Decadence is believing there is no truth, and that one lie is as good as another."
For example:
Barbarism: "All buildings must be built in this style."
Civilization: "I prefer this style of building, but you might be able to persuade me about the merits of other styles."
Decadence: "Nothing is objectively ugly or beautiful. The new building isn't any worse, just different."