Social Complexity and Complex Systems in Archaeology

Social Complexity and Complex Systems in Archaeology

Author: Dries Daems

Publisher: Routledge

Published: 2021-02-22

Total Pages: 228

ISBN-13: 1000344738

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Social Complexity and Complex Systems in Archaeology turns to complex systems thinking in search of a suitable framework to explore social complexity in Archaeology. Social complexity in archaeology is commonly related to properties of complex societies such as states, as opposed to so-called simple societies such as tribes or chiefdoms. These conceptualisations of complexity are ultimately rooted in Eurocentric perspectives with problematic implications for the field of archaeology. This book provides an in-depth conceptualisation of social complexity as the core concept in archaeological and interdisciplinary studies of the past, integrating approaches from complex systems thinking, archaeological theory, social practice theory, and sustainability and resilience science. The book covers a long-term perspective of social change and stability, tracing the full cycle of complexity trajectories, from emergence and development to collapse, regeneration and transformation of communities and societies. It offers a broad vision on social complexity as a core concept for the present and future development of archaeology. This book is intended to be a valuable resource for students and scholars in the field of archaeology and related disciplines such as history, anthropology, sociology, as well as the natural sciences studying human-environment interactions in the past.


Book Synopsis Social Complexity and Complex Systems in Archaeology by : Dries Daems

Download or read book Social Complexity and Complex Systems in Archaeology written by Dries Daems and published by Routledge. This book was released on 2021-02-22 with total page 228 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Social Complexity and Complex Systems in Archaeology turns to complex systems thinking in search of a suitable framework to explore social complexity in Archaeology. Social complexity in archaeology is commonly related to properties of complex societies such as states, as opposed to so-called simple societies such as tribes or chiefdoms. These conceptualisations of complexity are ultimately rooted in Eurocentric perspectives with problematic implications for the field of archaeology. This book provides an in-depth conceptualisation of social complexity as the core concept in archaeological and interdisciplinary studies of the past, integrating approaches from complex systems thinking, archaeological theory, social practice theory, and sustainability and resilience science. The book covers a long-term perspective of social change and stability, tracing the full cycle of complexity trajectories, from emergence and development to collapse, regeneration and transformation of communities and societies. It offers a broad vision on social complexity as a core concept for the present and future development of archaeology. This book is intended to be a valuable resource for students and scholars in the field of archaeology and related disciplines such as history, anthropology, sociology, as well as the natural sciences studying human-environment interactions in the past.


Complex Systems and Archaeology

Complex Systems and Archaeology

Author: R. Alexander Bentley

Publisher:

Published: 2003

Total Pages: 164

ISBN-13:

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Complexity science transects many fields ranging from physics to economics to biology. Its focus is the study of systems of interacting factors, which has lately been extended to include behavior in human societies. In prehistoric societies, whether these agents are defined at the scale of individuals, groups, households, or villages all agents are connected in such a way that change in the actions of one affects many others. Complex Systems and Archaeology presents a useful introduction to complexity theory followed by a series of case studies in which human societies and environments are viewed as open systems into and out of which matter or energy can flow. Examples of such systems include the introduction of new crops, the creation of new artifacts, or the flux of products in a market. This volume will have important implications for how archaeologists understand the dynamics of culture change and how they think about chronological stages, unique events, and the role of human agents.


Book Synopsis Complex Systems and Archaeology by : R. Alexander Bentley

Download or read book Complex Systems and Archaeology written by R. Alexander Bentley and published by . This book was released on 2003 with total page 164 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Complexity science transects many fields ranging from physics to economics to biology. Its focus is the study of systems of interacting factors, which has lately been extended to include behavior in human societies. In prehistoric societies, whether these agents are defined at the scale of individuals, groups, households, or villages all agents are connected in such a way that change in the actions of one affects many others. Complex Systems and Archaeology presents a useful introduction to complexity theory followed by a series of case studies in which human societies and environments are viewed as open systems into and out of which matter or energy can flow. Examples of such systems include the introduction of new crops, the creation of new artifacts, or the flux of products in a market. This volume will have important implications for how archaeologists understand the dynamics of culture change and how they think about chronological stages, unique events, and the role of human agents.


Social Complexity and Complex Systems in Archaeology

Social Complexity and Complex Systems in Archaeology

Author: Dries Daems

Publisher: Taylor & Francis

Published: 2021-02-22

Total Pages: 264

ISBN-13: 1000344673

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Social Complexity and Complex Systems in Archaeology turns to complex systems thinking in search of a suitable framework to explore social complexity in Archaeology. Social complexity in archaeology is commonly related to properties of complex societies such as states, as opposed to so-called simple societies such as tribes or chiefdoms. These conceptualisations of complexity are ultimately rooted in Eurocentric perspectives with problematic implications for the field of archaeology. This book provides an in-depth conceptualisation of social complexity as the core concept in archaeological and interdisciplinary studies of the past, integrating approaches from complex systems thinking, archaeological theory, social practice theory, and sustainability and resilience science. The book covers a long-term perspective of social change and stability, tracing the full cycle of complexity trajectories, from emergence and development to collapse, regeneration and transformation of communities and societies. It offers a broad vision on social complexity as a core concept for the present and future development of archaeology. This book is intended to be a valuable resource for students and scholars in the field of archaeology and related disciplines such as history, anthropology, sociology, as well as the natural sciences studying human-environment interactions in the past.


Book Synopsis Social Complexity and Complex Systems in Archaeology by : Dries Daems

Download or read book Social Complexity and Complex Systems in Archaeology written by Dries Daems and published by Taylor & Francis. This book was released on 2021-02-22 with total page 264 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Social Complexity and Complex Systems in Archaeology turns to complex systems thinking in search of a suitable framework to explore social complexity in Archaeology. Social complexity in archaeology is commonly related to properties of complex societies such as states, as opposed to so-called simple societies such as tribes or chiefdoms. These conceptualisations of complexity are ultimately rooted in Eurocentric perspectives with problematic implications for the field of archaeology. This book provides an in-depth conceptualisation of social complexity as the core concept in archaeological and interdisciplinary studies of the past, integrating approaches from complex systems thinking, archaeological theory, social practice theory, and sustainability and resilience science. The book covers a long-term perspective of social change and stability, tracing the full cycle of complexity trajectories, from emergence and development to collapse, regeneration and transformation of communities and societies. It offers a broad vision on social complexity as a core concept for the present and future development of archaeology. This book is intended to be a valuable resource for students and scholars in the field of archaeology and related disciplines such as history, anthropology, sociology, as well as the natural sciences studying human-environment interactions in the past.


Agent-Based Modeling for Archaeology

Agent-Based Modeling for Archaeology

Author: Iza Romanowska

Publisher: SFI Press

Published: 2021-08-02

Total Pages: 442

ISBN-13: 1947864386

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To fully understand not only the past, but also the trajectories, of human societies, we need a more dynamic view of human social systems. Agent-based modeling (ABM), which can create fine-scale models of behavior over time and space, may reveal important, general patterns of human activity. Agent-Based Modeling for Archaeology is the first ABM textbook designed for researchers studying the human past. Appropriate for scholars from archaeology, the digital humanities, and other social sciences, this book offers novices and more experienced ABM researchers a modular approach to learning ABM and using it effectively. Readers will find the necessary background, discussion of modeling techniques and traps, references, and algorithms to use ABM in their own work. They will also find engaging examples of how other scholars have applied ABM, ranging from the study of the intercontinental migration pathways of early hominins, to the weather–crop–population cycles of the American Southwest, to the trade networks of Ancient Rome. This textbook provides the foundations needed to simulate the complexity of past human societies, offering researchers a richer understanding of the past—and likely future—of our species.


Book Synopsis Agent-Based Modeling for Archaeology by : Iza Romanowska

Download or read book Agent-Based Modeling for Archaeology written by Iza Romanowska and published by SFI Press. This book was released on 2021-08-02 with total page 442 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: To fully understand not only the past, but also the trajectories, of human societies, we need a more dynamic view of human social systems. Agent-based modeling (ABM), which can create fine-scale models of behavior over time and space, may reveal important, general patterns of human activity. Agent-Based Modeling for Archaeology is the first ABM textbook designed for researchers studying the human past. Appropriate for scholars from archaeology, the digital humanities, and other social sciences, this book offers novices and more experienced ABM researchers a modular approach to learning ABM and using it effectively. Readers will find the necessary background, discussion of modeling techniques and traps, references, and algorithms to use ABM in their own work. They will also find engaging examples of how other scholars have applied ABM, ranging from the study of the intercontinental migration pathways of early hominins, to the weather–crop–population cycles of the American Southwest, to the trade networks of Ancient Rome. This textbook provides the foundations needed to simulate the complexity of past human societies, offering researchers a richer understanding of the past—and likely future—of our species.


Geographical Information Systems in Archaeology

Geographical Information Systems in Archaeology

Author: James Conolly

Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Published: 2006-05-04

Total Pages: 289

ISBN-13: 0521793300

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Geographical Information Systems has moved from the domain of the computer specialist into the wider archaeological community, providing it with an exciting new research method. This clearly written but rigorous book provides a comprehensive guide to that use. Topics covered include: the theoretical context and the basics of GIS; data acquisition including database design; interpolation of elevation models; exploratory data analysis including spatial queries; statistical spatial analysis; map algebra; spatial operations including the calculation of slope and aspect, filtering and erosion modeling; methods for analysing regions; visibility analysis; network analysis including hydrological modeling; the production of high quality output for paper and electronic publication; and the use and production of metadata. Offering an extensive range of archaeological examples, it is an invaluable source of practical information for all archaeologists, whether engaged in cultural resource management or academic research. This is essential reading for both the novice and the advanced user.


Book Synopsis Geographical Information Systems in Archaeology by : James Conolly

Download or read book Geographical Information Systems in Archaeology written by James Conolly and published by Cambridge University Press. This book was released on 2006-05-04 with total page 289 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Geographical Information Systems has moved from the domain of the computer specialist into the wider archaeological community, providing it with an exciting new research method. This clearly written but rigorous book provides a comprehensive guide to that use. Topics covered include: the theoretical context and the basics of GIS; data acquisition including database design; interpolation of elevation models; exploratory data analysis including spatial queries; statistical spatial analysis; map algebra; spatial operations including the calculation of slope and aspect, filtering and erosion modeling; methods for analysing regions; visibility analysis; network analysis including hydrological modeling; the production of high quality output for paper and electronic publication; and the use and production of metadata. Offering an extensive range of archaeological examples, it is an invaluable source of practical information for all archaeologists, whether engaged in cultural resource management or academic research. This is essential reading for both the novice and the advanced user.


Complex Communities

Complex Communities

Author: Benjamin W. Porter

Publisher: University of Arizona Press

Published: 2013-11-28

Total Pages: 222

ISBN-13: 0816530327

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Introduction: the persistence of community -- Communal complexity on the margins -- Measuring social complexity in the early iron age -- Producing community -- Managing community -- Conclusion: the complex community.


Book Synopsis Complex Communities by : Benjamin W. Porter

Download or read book Complex Communities written by Benjamin W. Porter and published by University of Arizona Press. This book was released on 2013-11-28 with total page 222 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Introduction: the persistence of community -- Communal complexity on the margins -- Measuring social complexity in the early iron age -- Producing community -- Managing community -- Conclusion: the complex community.


The Collapse of Complex Societies

The Collapse of Complex Societies

Author: Joseph A. Tainter

Publisher:

Published: 2013

Total Pages: 250

ISBN-13:

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Book Synopsis The Collapse of Complex Societies by : Joseph A. Tainter

Download or read book The Collapse of Complex Societies written by Joseph A. Tainter and published by . This book was released on 2013 with total page 250 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt:


Confronting Scale in Archaeology

Confronting Scale in Archaeology

Author: Gary Lock

Publisher: Springer Science & Business Media

Published: 2007-11-15

Total Pages: 298

ISBN-13: 9780387757018

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Without realizing, most archaeologists shift within a scale of interpretation of material culture. Material data is interpreted from the scale of an individual in a specific place and time, then shifted to the complex dynamics of cultural groups spread over time and place. This book discusses the cultural, social and spatial aspects of scale and its impact on archaeology, and shows how an improved awareness of scale offers new and exciting interpretations.


Book Synopsis Confronting Scale in Archaeology by : Gary Lock

Download or read book Confronting Scale in Archaeology written by Gary Lock and published by Springer Science & Business Media. This book was released on 2007-11-15 with total page 298 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Without realizing, most archaeologists shift within a scale of interpretation of material culture. Material data is interpreted from the scale of an individual in a specific place and time, then shifted to the complex dynamics of cultural groups spread over time and place. This book discusses the cultural, social and spatial aspects of scale and its impact on archaeology, and shows how an improved awareness of scale offers new and exciting interpretations.


Global Perspectives on the Collapse of Complex Systems

Global Perspectives on the Collapse of Complex Systems

Author: Jimmy A. Railey

Publisher:

Published: 2008

Total Pages: 0

ISBN-13: 9780912535159

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The recurrent collapse of human societies is a topic that is at once both fascinating and potentially troubling, and this edited volume offers some new thoughts on this important subject. The introduction discusses the topic at a theoretical level, and references a variety of cases (both past and present) from around the globe to illustrate various conditions and circumstances under which collapse and transformation occur. Nine chapters present specific studies from Iron Age central Europe, the Nilgiri Hills of south India, the early Bronze Age of north-central China, Maori New Zealand, Peru (Moche, Nasca, and the Chiribaya chiefdom of the south coast), late prehistoric and early historic Amazonia and the Caribbean, and the Cahokia chiefdom of eastern North America. With its global scope and diversity of case studies, the book expands our understanding of the various dimensions and historical circumstances faced by human societies that ultimately failed.


Book Synopsis Global Perspectives on the Collapse of Complex Systems by : Jimmy A. Railey

Download or read book Global Perspectives on the Collapse of Complex Systems written by Jimmy A. Railey and published by . This book was released on 2008 with total page 0 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: The recurrent collapse of human societies is a topic that is at once both fascinating and potentially troubling, and this edited volume offers some new thoughts on this important subject. The introduction discusses the topic at a theoretical level, and references a variety of cases (both past and present) from around the globe to illustrate various conditions and circumstances under which collapse and transformation occur. Nine chapters present specific studies from Iron Age central Europe, the Nilgiri Hills of south India, the early Bronze Age of north-central China, Maori New Zealand, Peru (Moche, Nasca, and the Chiribaya chiefdom of the south coast), late prehistoric and early historic Amazonia and the Caribbean, and the Cahokia chiefdom of eastern North America. With its global scope and diversity of case studies, the book expands our understanding of the various dimensions and historical circumstances faced by human societies that ultimately failed.


Complex Systems and Population Health

Complex Systems and Population Health

Author: Yorghos Apostolopoulos

Publisher: Oxford University Press

Published: 2020-05-29

Total Pages: 336

ISBN-13: 0190880767

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Currently, population health science is an integral part of global academic curricula. For over a century, the principles of the reductionist paradigm have guided population health curricula, training, research, and action. Researchers continue to draw upon these principles when theorizing, conceptualizing, designing studies, analyzing, and devising interventions to tackle complex population health problems. However, unresolved impasses in addressing pressing population health challenges have catalyzed calls for the integration of complex-systems-science-grounded approaches into population health science. Mounting evidence denotes that a complex systems paradigm can bring about dramatic, multipronged changes for education and training, and lead to innovative research, interventions, and policies. Despite the large and untapped promise of complex systems, the haphazard knowledge base from which academics, researchers, students, policymakers, and practitioners can draw has slowed their integration into the population health sciences. This volume fulfils this growing need by providing the knowledge base necessary to introduce a holistic complex systems paradigm in population health science. As such, it is the first comprehensive book in population health science that meaningfully integrates complex systems theory, methodology, modeling, computational simulation, and real-world applications, while incorporating current population health theoretical, methodological and analytical perspectives. It is intended as a programmatic primer across a broad spectrum of population health stakeholders: from university professors and graduate students, to researchers, policymakers, and practitioners.


Book Synopsis Complex Systems and Population Health by : Yorghos Apostolopoulos

Download or read book Complex Systems and Population Health written by Yorghos Apostolopoulos and published by Oxford University Press. This book was released on 2020-05-29 with total page 336 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Currently, population health science is an integral part of global academic curricula. For over a century, the principles of the reductionist paradigm have guided population health curricula, training, research, and action. Researchers continue to draw upon these principles when theorizing, conceptualizing, designing studies, analyzing, and devising interventions to tackle complex population health problems. However, unresolved impasses in addressing pressing population health challenges have catalyzed calls for the integration of complex-systems-science-grounded approaches into population health science. Mounting evidence denotes that a complex systems paradigm can bring about dramatic, multipronged changes for education and training, and lead to innovative research, interventions, and policies. Despite the large and untapped promise of complex systems, the haphazard knowledge base from which academics, researchers, students, policymakers, and practitioners can draw has slowed their integration into the population health sciences. This volume fulfils this growing need by providing the knowledge base necessary to introduce a holistic complex systems paradigm in population health science. As such, it is the first comprehensive book in population health science that meaningfully integrates complex systems theory, methodology, modeling, computational simulation, and real-world applications, while incorporating current population health theoretical, methodological and analytical perspectives. It is intended as a programmatic primer across a broad spectrum of population health stakeholders: from university professors and graduate students, to researchers, policymakers, and practitioners.