Which ancient civilization was best for the common man?

Determining which ancient civilization was "best" for the common person is a subjective matter and can vary based on different criteria such as quality of life, social structure, rights and freedoms, access to resources, and levels of justice and equality. Each ancient civilization had its own unique characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages. Here are a few civilizations known for aspects that benefited the common people:

Indus Valley Civilization: This ancient civilization, which thrived around the Indus River Valley in present-day Pakistan and northwest India, is known for its advanced urban planning, sanitation systems, and egalitarian society. Archaeological evidence suggests a relatively equal distribution of resources among its inhabitants, with well-planned cities featuring sophisticated drainage and waste management systems, indicating a concern for public health and welfare.

Athenian Democracy (Ancient Greece): Athens, one of the prominent city-states of ancient Greece, is renowned for its experiment with democracy, particularly during the Classical period. Although the Athenian democracy was limited to male citizens, it allowed for greater participation in decision-making processes compared to other contemporary civilizations. Athenian democracy included concepts like the rule of law, freedom of speech (parrhesia), and the right to vote in the Assembly, enhancing the political agency of common citizens to some extent.

Maurya Empire (Ancient India): Under the rule of Emperor Ashoka (3rd century BCE), the Maurya Empire in ancient India is known for its policies promoting social welfare and ethical governance. Ashoka's edicts inscribed on pillars and rocks throughout the empire advocated for religious tolerance, non-violence (ahimsa), and the welfare of the common people. His administration invested in public works projects, healthcare, and the provision of resources for the disadvantaged, reflecting a concern for the well-being of his subjects.

Roman Empire (during Pax Romana): The period of Pax Romana (Roman Peace), which lasted roughly from 27 BCE to 180 CE, was characterized by relative stability, prosperity, and infrastructural development within the Roman Empire. Although Roman society was hierarchical and stratified, with disparities in wealth and rights, the common people benefited from the construction of roads, bridges, aqueducts, and public buildings. Additionally, during this time, Roman law provided certain protections for citizens, including legal recourse against abuses of power.

It's important to note that each of these civilizations had its own complexities, including social inequalities, limitations on individual freedoms, and varying degrees of inclusivity in terms of citizenship and rights. Additionally, our understanding of these ancient societies is shaped by historical records that may be incomplete or biased. Therefore, determining which ancient civilization was "best" for the common person is a nuanced and subjective assessment.