There's no universally agreed upon definition, but generally, a civilization is characterized by:
* Complex social organization: This includes social hierarchy, specialized labor, and institutions like government and religion.
* Advanced technology: This includes tools, agriculture, writing, and architecture.
* Urban centers: These are concentrated areas of population with infrastructure and public services.
* Cultural achievements: This includes art, literature, philosophy, and scientific advancements.
Based on these criteria, two societies that could definitely be called civilizations are:
1. Ancient Egypt: This society boasted a complex social structure, advanced technology like pyramids and hieroglyphics, large cities like Thebes and Memphis, and remarkable cultural achievements in art, architecture, and religion.
2. Mesopotamia: This region, home to civilizations like Sumer, Akkad, Babylon, and Assyria, was another early cradle of civilization. They developed writing, sophisticated irrigation systems, complex legal codes, and impressive architectural feats like ziggurats.
It's important to note that other societies, like the Indus Valley Civilization or the Olmec civilization, also meet many of the criteria for civilization. The choice of Egypt and Mesopotamia is just a good starting point.