
- English
- ePUB (mobile friendly)
- Available on iOS & Android
About this book
This accessible and insightful textbook provides a comprehensive introduction to the economics of prehistory. By presenting a chronological account of the beginnings of economics and human society, it charts the key developments in early human history, from the evolution of social norms and colonizing of unknown continents, to the development of early technology and the transition to agricultural food production. Particular attention is given to how human capital, the natural environment, social capital, and the spread of knowledge and technical skills propelled economic development during prehistory. The origin of modern concerns, including wealth inequality, stratified societies, and environmental change, are thoughtfully presented through the examining of the birth of the first states and human civilization.
This book provides a thrilling account of human evolution and economic development from its African origins and hunter-gather days, through to the invention of agriculture and the rise of early states. Bringing together ideas from across economic history, the political economy, anthropology, and evolutionary biology, it will be relevant to students and general readers interested in these topics.
Frequently asked questions
- Essential is ideal for learners and professionals who enjoy exploring a wide range of subjects. Access the Essential Library with 800,000+ trusted titles and best-sellers across business, personal growth, and the humanities. Includes unlimited reading time and Standard Read Aloud voice.
- Complete: Perfect for advanced learners and researchers needing full, unrestricted access. Unlock 1.4M+ books across hundreds of subjects, including academic and specialized titles. The Complete Plan also includes advanced features like Premium Read Aloud and Research Assistant.
Please note we cannot support devices running on iOS 13 and Android 7 or earlier. Learn more about using the app.
Information
Table of contents
- Cover
- Front Matter
- 1. Introduction
- 2. African Origins
- 3. Human Capital Evolution in a Cooling Climate
- 4. Hunting and Gathering Homo Sapiens
- 5. The Out-of-Africa Dispersal
- 6. Glacial Adaptations
- 7. Economic Organization on the Eve of Agriculture
- 8. Domestication of Plants, Animals, and Humans
- 9. Theories of the Transition to Agriculture
- 10. Agricultural Intensification, Expansion and Trade
- 11. Institutional and Technological Development
- 12. Models of State Origins
- 13. First States I: Mesopotamia and Egypt
- 14. First States II: Indus, China, Peru, and Mexico
- 15. End of Prehistory
- Back Matter