In this post, we’ll explore all you need to know about cycles, defining exactly what they are, why they are important to understand, identifying the different historical cycles and more.
What Are Cycles?
Cycles are recurring patterns that can be observed in various aspects of society, including economic, technological and generational domains.
Cycles are a natural result of The Law Of Rhythm which tells us that everything is cyclical. What may seem random is in fact occurring according to a specific pattern between two opposing forces.
“Everything flows, out and in; everything has its tides; all things rise and fall; the pendulum-swing manifests in everything; the measure of the swing to the right is the measure of the swing to the left; rhythm compensates.” ― The Kybalion.
Why Understanding Cycles Is Important
Understanding past cycles allows us to identify patterns and then leverage those patterns by anticipating and preparing for future threats and opportunities.
The better we can understand the past, the better we can predict, prepare for and navigate the future.
“The farther back you can look, the farther forward you are likely to see.” — Winston Churchill
Important Cycles
Below we’ll unpack some of the most important cycles. It is important to note that these cycles aren’t absolute and therefore do not strictly adhere to an exact timeline. Instead, they are approximate frameworks that we can work within to base our decisions from.
6 Year Credit Cycles
Credit cycles typically last around six years and involve fluctuations in the availability of credit, interest rates and borrowing. They are primarily driven by central bank monetary policies and can have significant effects on economic growth, inflation and asset prices.
Examples include the boom-bust cycle experienced during the US housing market bubble and the subsequent financial crisis in 2007-2008.
50 Year Tech Revolution Cycle
The 50-year tech revolution cycle, also known as the Kondratiev Wave, is a long-term economic cycle driven by technological innovations. It consists of alternating periods of rapid growth and stagnation.
Examples include the Industrial Revolution between 1760 and 1830, the age of steam and railways between 1830 and 1880, the age of steel and electricity between 1880 and 1930, the age of autos and petrochemicals between 1930 and 1970 and the age of information technology and telecommunications between 1970 and 2020.
80 Year Financial Revolution Cycle
The 80-year financial revolution cycle is an economic cycle characterized by major shifts in financial systems, institutions and policies. It often coincides with major wars, depressions or other significant socio-political events.
Examples include the creation of the US Federal Reserve in 1913, the Bretton Woods system in 1944 and the emergence of the global financial system in the late 20th century.
80-100 Year Generational Cycle
The 80-100 year generational cycle, also known as the Strauss-Howe generational theory, suggests that societies undergo distinct generational shifts roughly every 80-100 years. These cycles consist of four stages: high, awakening, unravelling and crisis.
Examples include the American Revolution, the Civil War, the Great Depression and World War II.
100 Year New World Order Cycle
The 100-Year Changing World Order Cycle refers to shifts in the balance of power and the emergence of new global political and economic systems.
Examples include the rise of the British Empire in the 19th century, the emergence of the United States as a global superpower in the 20th century and the ongoing rise of China in the 21st century.
1,000, 2,000, 3,000 & 4,000 Yuga Cycles
The Yugas describe the cyclical ages of time that mankind goes through over the course of its evolution.
Each Yuga corresponds with certain characteristics that define mankind at that particular time. The four Yugas are Kali Yuga, Dwapara Yuga, Treta Yuga and Satya Yuga.
Summary (TL;DR)
Cycles are recurring patterns observed in various aspects of society. These cycles include credit cycles, technological revolution cycles, financial revolution cycles, generational cycles and new world order cycles.
By recognising and examining these cycles, we can gain a better understanding of the forces shaping our world. This enhance our ability to better adapt to the ever-changing landscape.
