TED Talks Daily A new understanding of human history and the roots of inequality | David Wengrow
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Jul 22, 2022 What if our understanding of civilization is flawed? An archaeological historian explores how traditional views of agriculture and social structures may be misleading. Discover a 4,000-year period filled with innovation without strict hierarchies. Dive into the origins of cities and see evidence of organized societies thriving without rulers. This fresh perspective challenges the ties between urbanization and inequality, inviting us to rethink the roots of social structures and our modern world.
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Agriculture and Inequality
- The invention of agriculture, contrary to common belief, didn't immediately lead to social inequality.
- Archaeological evidence suggests a 4,000-year period of technological advancement without rigid class structures.
Technological Progress without Hierarchy
- After agriculture, villages remained villages for an extended period.
- Despite this, significant technological progress occurred, including metallurgy, textiles, and the potter's wheel.
Redefining Civilization
- Societies exhibiting significant inequality are typically labeled as 'civilizations'.
- However, many early agricultural societies flourished without extreme exploitation or social stratification.