I want to know about the first section of the civ building. Things like Priest towers, slavery, and others at the top. it doesn't give an explanation as to WHAT these things actually do and what they entail. does anyone have a list of what they are, or, a place where i can find what they mean? would really love to know this, thanks.

It's all there in the manual. Go to where you installed the game, look for the Art of Conquest folder and look for the manual. If its not there go to its page here and download it under extras.

Best explanation can be found at http://ee.heavengames.com/new/eeh/gameinfo/civilizations/custom.shtml