Evolution of Human Societies: From Paleolithic to States
Agricultural Society (10,000 years ago)
Hunting led to severe exhaustion and population increase. This forced the use of other resources. Societies became sedentary, leading to a new economy based on asset accumulation and redistribution. Surpluses were stored for the first time. Competitive distributions among leaders and followers emerged, establishing a social hierarchy.
Emergence of the State
Features:
- Centralized power
- Highly stratified society (military, religious, administrative, artisans)
- Clear separation of functions
- Unequal distribution of assets
- Urban development
- Advanced cultural development
This new social organization appeared in the Middle East around 3500 BC in Mesopotamia. Cultural anthropology studies these changes through the analysis of ancient villages, providing insights into human social development.
Prehistoric Periods
Lower Paleolithic (500,000 years ago)
Homo heidelbergensis and Homo rhodesiensis.
Middle Paleolithic (150,000 years ago)
Dominated by Neanderthals.
Upper Paleolithic (40,000 years ago)
Homo sapiens in Africa, dominated until about 11,000 years ago.
Mesolithic (11,000 years ago)
Formation of agricultural societies.
Neolithic (8,000 years ago)
Development of agriculture and livestock.
Metal Age (4,500 years ago)
Bronze Age (3,300 years ago) and Iron Age, leading to the first states and documented history.
Social Identity
We are born into social groups (families, neighborhoods, cities, nations) and develop self-identity and social identity.
Socialization
Socialization is the process of assimilating culture and developing self-identity. It has two stages:
1. Primary Socialization
The most important stage, occurring in childhood within the family. Children learn roles, attitudes, and values, and begin to understand and identify with the world.
2. Secondary Socialization
Integration into the institutional world through organizations (labor, political, religious). Social roles are more anonymous, and emotional aspects are less significant. Growth crises are frequent as individuals encounter diverse models and approaches.
Resocialization
Resocialization occurs when individuals adapt to new social and cultural contexts due to radical societal changes, migration, or personal growth. It can create a deep crisis and depends on various factors, including the emotional power of new identifications.