An Economist Best History Book 2017 “History as it should be written.”—Barry Cunliffe, Guardian “Scott hits the nail squarely on the head by exposing the staggering price our ancestors paid for civilization and political order.”—Walter Scheidel, Financial Times Why did humans abandon hunting and gathering for sedentary communities dependent on livestock and cereal grains, and governed by precursors of today’s states? Most people believe that plant and animal domestication allowed humans, finally, to settle down and form agricultural villages, towns, and states, which made possible civilization, law, public order, and a presumably secure way of living. But archaeological and historical evidence challenges this narrative. The first agrarian states, says James C. Scott, were born of accumulations of domestications: first fire, then plants, livestock, subjects of the state, captives, and finally women in the patriarchal family—all of which can be viewed as a way of gaining control over reproduction. Scott explores why we avoided sedentism and plow agriculture, the advantages of mobile subsistence, the unforeseeable disease epidemics arising from crowding plants, animals, and grain, and why all early states are based on millets and cereal grains and unfree labor. He also discusses the “barbarians” who long evaded state control, as a way of understanding continuing tension between states and nonsubject peoples.
Details e-book Against the Grain: A Deep History of the Earliest States
🗸 Author(s): James C. Scott
🗸 Title: Against the Grain: A Deep History of the Earliest States
🗸 Rating : 4.5 from 5 stars (652 reviews)
🗸 ISBN-10: 030024021X
🗸 ISBN-13: 9780300240214
🗸 Languange: English
🗸 Format ebook: PDF, EPUB, Kindle, Audio, HTML and MOBI
🗸 Supported Devices: Android, iOS, PC and Amazon Kindle
✓ Read as many eBooks you want!
✓ Secure Scanned. No Virus Detected
✓ Thousands of eBooks to choose from - Hottest new releases
✓ Click it and Read it! - no waiting to read eBooks, it's instant!
✓ Keep reading your favorite eBooks over and over!
✓ It works anywhere in the world!
✓ No late fees or fixed contracts - cancel anytime!
Readers' opinions about Against the Grain: A Deep History of the Earliest States by James C. Scott
![/](https://i2.wp.com/shortlinks.top/img/f6.png)
Peace Preston
Dive into an epic fantasy novel where heroes embark on a perilous quest to save their world from an ancient evil. The world-building is richly detailed, immersing readers in a realm of magic and adventure. With its unforgettable characters and breathtaking action scenes, this book is sure to captivate readers of all ages.
![/](https://i2.wp.com/shortlinks.top/img/f8.png)
Haileigh Campbell
Immerse yourself in a captivating romance novel that sweeps readers off their feet with its tale of forbidden love and passionate desire. Set against the backdrop of a lush tropical paradise, the story follows two star-crossed lovers as they navigate the complexities of their forbidden relationship. With its evocative prose and steamy romance, this book is guaranteed to set hearts racing.
![/](https://i2.wp.com/shortlinks.top/img/f18.png)
Taraji Buchanan
This captivating memoir offers a deeply personal glimpse into the life of a remarkable individual, whose journey from hardship to triumph serves as an inspiration to us all. From humble beginnings to extraordinary achievements, the author's story is a testament to the power of perseverance and determination. With its raw honesty and heartfelt emotion, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking inspiration and hope.