Final answer:
Civilization and wilderness are not mutually exclusive concepts; they are interconnected and have coexisted throughout human history.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question of which came first, civilization or wilderness, is a trick question. Civilization and wilderness are not mutually exclusive concepts, and they cannot exist without each other. Wilderness refers to land that is in its natural state, untouched by human civilization. Civilization, on the other hand, refers to the development of human society, including the establishment of cities, agriculture, and complex social structures.
Civilization can only exist if there is wilderness to begin with. In order for humans to develop agriculture and build cities, they needed fertile land and natural resources, which they could find in wilderness areas. At the same time, civilization has a significant impact on wilderness, transforming natural landscapes and ecosystems to meet human needs.
So, it is a misconception to think of civilization and wilderness as separate entities. They are interconnected and have coexisted throughout human history.