Social complexity and inequality in the Late Neolithic of the Central Balkans: reviewing the evidence
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.4312/dp.39.12Keywords:
social complexity, social evolution, Late Neolithic, Central Balkans, Vinča cultureAbstract
The aim of this paper is to review and critically evaluate relevant archaeological evidence regarding recent claims about the social complexity of Late Neolithic societies in the Central Balkans. Theory suggests that the relevant evidence should be related to population size, economic intensification, ranking, and craft specialisation. It is concluded that, although there are indications that inequalities existed and also demographic potential for organisational complexity, there is no unambiguous evidence that institutionalised inequality in the form of complex polities such as chiefdoms or states ever developed.Downloads
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Published
31.12.2012
How to Cite
Porčić, M. (2012). Social complexity and inequality in the Late Neolithic of the Central Balkans: reviewing the evidence. Documenta Praehistorica, 39, 167–184. https://doi.org/10.4312/dp.39.12
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