The Origins of Human Society

ISBN-13: 9781557863492 / Angielski / Twarda / 2000 / 496 str.

Peter I. Bogucki

Opis

The Origins of Human Society traces the development of human culture from its origins over 2 million years ago to the emergence of literate civilization. In addition to a global coverage of prehistoric life, the book pays specific attention to the origins and dispersal of anatomically-modern humans, the development of symbolic expression, the transition from mobile foraging bands to sedentary households, early agriculture and its consequences, the emergence of social differentiation and hereditary ranking, and the prehistoric roots of ancient states and empires.

Recenzje

"Bogucki has succeeded admirably in his attempt to review the most up–to–date findings and interpretive issues in world prehistory ... This book will enlarge and modify our understanding of prehistory." Journal of World History

Spis treści

List of Figures and Tables.

Series Editor′s Preface.

Preface.

A Note on Dating.

1. The Gateway to Human Prehistory.

2. The Earliest Human Societies.

3. The Human Diaspora.

4. After the Ice Age.

5. Seeds for Civilization.

6. Pathways to Inequality.

7. Elites and Commoners.

8. Early States and Chiefdoms in the Shadow of States.

Bibliography.

Index.

Blurb

The origins and development of human society are explored and illuminated in this compelling history. The book provides readers with an understanding of the evolution of humans and the cultures they established, from the first traces of humanity to the creation of early literate societies.

The author examines how Homo Sapiens emerged as the sole–surviving human species and developed into modern humans. He provides a global account of prehistoric life and the roots of modern societies and empires. The major topics covered include the creation of hierarchical societies and hereditary ranking, the origins of language, the importance of agriculture, the evolution of tool–making, the development of religion, and the beginnings of war.

The Origins of Human Society provides the essential foundation to the study of early civilization and reveals the origins of the major elements of modern human society and culture.