How Socioeconomic Stratification Spread
Author Information
Author(s): Deborah S. Rogers, Omkar Deshpande, Marcus W. Feldman
Primary Institution: Stanford University
Hypothesis
The spread of socioeconomic stratification may have been a result of cultural change via demic diffusion.
Conclusion
Stratified societies spread more rapidly and were better able to survive resource shortages compared to egalitarian societies.
Supporting Evidence
- Stratified societies were more likely to migrate and fill unoccupied sites quickly.
- Egalitarian societies experienced fewer demographic crises and extinctions.
- Stratified populations showed greater demographic instability in constant environments.
Takeaway
This study shows that societies with inequality can grow and spread faster than those that are equal, especially when resources are scarce.
Methodology
The study used agent-based simulations to model demographic consequences of resource distribution in stratified societies.
Potential Biases
Potential biases in the simulation parameters and assumptions about resource allocation.
Limitations
The model does not account for all cultural and environmental factors influencing societal development.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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