Two Things about the West
My first point is based basically of the theory that civilisation began originally with the settlement that begins with agriculture. If this is so, then a measure of a civilisation's success should be determined by food.
In the West, everyone (even the poor) has a real chance of becoming fat. Indeed, most people have to struggle to avoid becoming fat. Whilst this is may be horrible personably, as a civilisation it's a big tick. Fat people on the dole (and yes, I lived below the poverty line for 9 years and I gained weight) here, would starve to death in non-Western cultures.
All things being equal (ie excusing drug habits, gambling problems or mental illnesses) you shouldn't starve to death in the West.
Therefore, the West wins.
I'm talking mainly about the big three here: Islam, Judaism and Christainity, but only because they are the clear and present threat.
The West (ideally) believes in liberty and full emancipation. Freedom for everyone, and everyone treated equally. Sensible, rational laws should exist to reflect these beliefs.
Unfortunately, all of these religions have opposition to these statements. They discriminate against women, homosexuals, and other religions. They place prohibitions on what a person can or cannot do with their own body, based on mystically received wisdom. They have stupidly specific laws--and worse, they try to enforce their views on others.
It is only when the West finally purges its Government of the remnants of these ideas that we can have true freedom.
The most annoying thing is that it won't really effect these religious types, anyway. If you're a Catholic, and don't believe in the Morning-After pill (which should be legal) then don't take it. If you're a Muslim, and don't want to drink alcohol, then don't.
Just fuck off away from the Government with your religious beliefs.