Can models of evolutionary transition clarify the debates over the Neolithic Revolution?

Area of Science:

• Archaeology
• Evolutionary Biology
• Anthropology

Background:

• The Neolithic Revolution, originating in the southern Levant, marks a pivotal transformation in human history, yet its causes, pace, and the role of human intentionality are debated.
• Despite a century of research, fundamental questions about the Neolithic Revolution's origins and mechanisms persist, hindering a comprehensive understanding.

Observation:

• Current archaeological research often focuses on specific factors like climate or inheritance systems, leading to reductionist explanations.
• The 'selfish interest' of individuals in hunter-gatherer societies presents a paradox for understanding the evolution of cooperative Neolithic lifeways.

Findings:

• An evolutionary transition in individuality (ETI) perspective provides a holistic framework to analyze the Neolithic shift, accommodating diverse causal factors.
• ETI research highlights how varied conditions can converge on similar outcomes, moving beyond single-cause explanations for the emergence of agriculture.

Implications:

• This ETI approach offers a novel pathway to resolve long-standing disputes regarding the Neolithic Revolution's drivers and tempo.
• It shifts focus from 'what' and 'when' to 'how' and 'why' the Neolithic lifeway could emerge, emphasizing within- and between-group dynamics.