The Origins of Chinese Civilization

This interdisciplinary volume examines early China through the lenses of archeology, art history, botany, climatology, cultural and physical anthropology, ethnography, epigraphy, linguistics, metallurgy, and political and social history. It offers original interpretations of the nature of Chinese civilization in its formative stage and the processes of state formation. The book appeals to scholars interested in the genesis of civilization and the transition from the Neolithic to the Bronze Age.

Format: Hardback
Length: 652 pages
Publication date: 25 March 2022
Publisher: University of California Press

This comprehensive interdisciplinary volume brings together seventeen experts from various fields to explore early China's rich history and culture. Through their analytical approaches, these contributors shed light on various aspects of early China, including archeology, art history, botany, climatology, cultural and physical anthropology, ethnography, epigraphy, linguistics, metallurgy, and political and social history.

For readers interested in delving into topics such as the origins of rice or millet agriculture, the development of writing, the nature of the trie system, and the processes of state formation, this book offers invaluable insights. It presents significant hypotheses regarding the cultural significance of ecogeographical zones in China, the Neolithic interaction between the east coast and Central Plains, the remarkable homogeneity of early Chinese crania, and the connections between the Xia, Shang, and Chou dynasties.

The authors employ recently published archaeological evidence and advanced dating techniques, such as carbon-14 and thermoluminescent dating, to provide original and groundbreaking interpretations of the nature of Chinese civilization during its formative stages. By examining the development of Chinese civilization from its Neolithic roots, this volume not only sheds light on its unique characteristics but also serves as a valuable example of indigenous civilizations' growth.

This book appeals to a wide range of readers, including those with an interest in the genesis of civilization and the transition from the Neolithic to the Bronze Age. It provides a comprehensive summary of the current state of knowledge about China and offers insightful research strategies and hypotheses for future exploration.

The contributors to this volume are highly respected scholars in their respective fields, and their contributions have significantly advanced our understanding of early China. Their expertise and multidisciplinary approach make this book a valuable resource for scholars, students, and anyone seeking to deepen their knowledge of this fascinating period of history.

In conclusion, this interdisciplinary volume is a groundbreaking work that offers a comprehensive and insightful exploration of early China's history and culture. By bringing together experts from diverse fields, it provides a rich tapestry of perspectives and methodologies that shed new light on this complex and fascinating period. Whether you are a scholar, student, or simply interested in history, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the origins and development of one of the world's oldest civilizations.

Weight: 953g
Dimension: 210 x 148 x 41 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780520357242