Final answer:
A society must have a stable economy, social stratification, specialization of labor, and a surplus food supply to be considered a civilization. Education systems, while valuable, are not strictly required for the definition of a civilization.
Step-by-step explanation:
In identifying the necessary components for a society to be considered a civilization, several criteria must be met. These include a stable economy, pronounced social stratification or separation between leaders and workers, various kinds of work that illustrates specialization of labor, and a surplus food supply. An established education system, while beneficial, is not a necessary requirement for a society to be considered a civilization historically. Early civilizations emerged along river valleys, supported by agricultural production that resulted in food surpluses. This surplus was the foundation for increasing population, which in turn supported specialization and the development of social classes. Additionally, the government structure became more complex to manage and maintain order within these larger populations.