The philosophers of the ancients, the thinkers of the Middle
Ages and the scientists of this and the former centuries have all agreed upon
the fact that the best and the most ideal region for the habitation of man is
the temperate zone, for in this belt the intellects and thoughts rise to the
highest stage of maturity, and the capability and ability of civilization
manifest themselves in full efflorescence. When you read history critically and
with a penetrating eye, it becomes evident that the majority of the famous men
have been born, reared and have done their work in the temperate zone… For the moderation of the weather, the beauty of the scenery and
the geographical configuration of the country display a great effect in the
world of minds and thoughts. This fact is well demonstrated through observation
and experience.
(‘Abdu’l-Baha, ‘Tablets of
the Divine Plan’)
