Simulating Transitions to Agriculture in Prehistory

This book explores innovative approaches to archaeological research using computational modeling, focusing on the Neolithic transition around the world. It emphasizes the importance of understanding the social and ecological factors involved in this transition, which traditional archaeological methods alone cannot fully address. Computational modeling techniques, such as agent-based modeling, Bayesian modeling, GIS modeling, and modeling of small-scale agriculture, are introduced as effective tools for analyzing prehistoric data and understanding the linkages between social and ecological factors. The book appeals to interdisciplinary scientists and researchers interested in archaeology and computational social science.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 260 pages
Publication date: 26 January 2023
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This captivating book delves into groundbreaking approaches to archaeological research, employing computational modeling to explore the fascinating Neolithic transition across the globe. The profound impact of the advent and widespread adoption of agriculture in prehistory cannot be overstated, prompting archaeologists to dedicate their efforts to understanding the ecological, social, and cultural factors that shaped this transformative era. Recognizing the intricate interplay of socio-ecological factors, traditional archaeological methods alone have proven insufficient in unraveling the mysteries of this transition. Thus, computational modeling techniques have emerged as a powerful tool, enabling researchers to gain a deeper understanding of prehistoric data sets and the intricate relationships between social and ecological dynamics during periods of subsistence change. These techniques encompass a range of methods, including agent-based modeling, Bayesian modeling, GIS modeling of the prehistoric environment, and the modeling of small-scale agriculture. As the accumulation of archaeological data related to the transition to agriculture continues, researchers often face challenges in effectively linking these diverse datasets. However, computational modeling offers a critical solution, providing a framework for integrating and analyzing these datasets in a holistic manner. By leveraging the power of advanced computational methods, researchers can uncover new insights, patterns, and correlations that shed light on the complex processes that shaped human prehistory worldwide. This book is a valuable resource for a wide range of interdisciplinary scientists and researchers who are engaged in the study of archaeology and computational social science. Its comprehensive coverage and innovative approach make it an essential read for anyone seeking to advance our understanding of the past and its relevance to the present. Chapter "The Spread of Agriculture: Quantitative Laws in Prehistory?" is freely accessible online through springer.com, allowing readers to delve into the rich insights and methodologies presented in this groundbreaking work.

Weight: 427g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030836450
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021