Thursday, September 5, 2013

     The Neolithic Revolution is perhaps the most important watershed moment of human history. It is this revolution that guarantees human survival and puts humans on the track to becoming the world's dominant species. In the Neolithic Revolution, starting around 10000 BC, humans settle the first cities, raise the first farms, create the first societies. Never before or since has such radical technical advancement occurred, nor has such a great percentage of the world's populace ever shifted their culture so dramatically.
     The Neolithic revolution is the greatest thing that ever happened to humanity. The invention of agriculture boosted the world population enormously by allowing people to raise large families. Larger populations were a twofold boon to humanity; they protected society from extinction by the simple act of living, and allowed for the all important trade diversification. Because only a fraction of the population is needed for food production, people are free to take up dozens of other jobs. Trade diversification is what truly allows humans to become the superpower of the animal kingdom. Early metalworkers, potters, and builders each lend to society, and traders  sweep goods across continents.
     The primary drawbacks to the revolution were health problems, suffered by everyone but especially by the farmers who had to work long hours in the fields picking and grinding grain. But for each of these health issues, there is a life improvement that more than makes up for it. Sewage and animal work spreads never-seen-before illnesses, but a steady food and water supply means many fewer children die  of starvation and thirst. The poor conditions of farmers leads to cramped, painful postures. In exchange, culture such as early art and jewelry provides new entertainment to keep people happy. Organized religion gives society hope and morals,  and contributes to a peaceful, calm lifestyle. The Neolithic Revolution brought suffering to some, but more than repaid them with its many benefits.

Happy Farmer

3 comments:

  1. Good job! I appreciate that you are offering a focused argument in support of the Neolithic (as if it needs our support). Well done! I think you could strengthen your argument by taking on some of the factors that offer counter-evidence to your main idea. For example, the occurrence of hierarchy, oppression of women etc. Do you see any ways that you could take on some of these other issues and still make your strong point?

    ReplyDelete
  2. Nice post. You have a lot of good evidence here. I particularly like the third paragraph. It gave good reasons as to why certain advances were so positive. If I had to say anything that could be improved upon, maybe provide a little more analysis in the second paragraph. It gives a lot of good evidence, which speaks mainly for itself, but I think taking it a step further would make it even more interesting. Overall, I feel you did a great job at covering a lot of subjects in only three paragraphs.

    ReplyDelete
  3. Nice post. You have a lot of good evidence here. I particularly like the third paragraph. It gave good reasons as to why certain advances were so positive. If I had to say anything that could be improved upon, maybe provide a little more analysis in the second paragraph. It gives a lot of good evidence, which speaks mainly for itself, but I think taking it a step further would make it even more interesting. Overall, I feel you did a great job at covering a lot of subjects in only three paragraphs.

    ReplyDelete