Publication Date
12-12-1978
Abstract
Attempts to explain the origin of complex social systems have been consistently unsuccessful. The arguments treating this subject are not predictive and fail to account for the documented variability of complex societies. This is attributed to their fundamentally non-processual orientation in which variable dimensions of analysis are generally lacking. Because of its more elaborate format, the recently popular “systems theory” approach is examined in detail with respect to these problems. It is suggested that familiarity with the epistemology of science can be useful for achieving the goal of explanation.
The study of energy dynamics in cultural systems appears to have considerable potential for understanding the evolution of complex societies. Al I cultural systems must allocate finite energy supplies to maximize survival chances. These energy supplies are derived largely from human labor effort in pre-industrial societies. As agricultural production is the energy base of most complex societies, the problems involved in stabilizing production for a secure energy flow to the system are examined. There are a variety of strategies used to solve these problems, depending on the intensity of production and seasonality of the environment. Such strategies have an energetic cost and are referred to as "energy subsidies."
Document Type
Dissertation
Language
English
Degree Name
Anthropology
Level of Degree
Doctoral
Department Name
Anthropology
First Committee Member (Chair)
William James Judge
Second Committee Member
Lewis R. Binford
Third Committee Member
Karl H. Schwerin
Recommended Citation
Athens, John Stephen II.. "Evolutionary Process In Complex Societies And The Late Period-Cara Occupation Of Northern Highland Ecuador." (1978). https://digitalrepository.unm.edu/anth_etds/222
