Egalitarian is a term used to describe a person who believes that all human beings are equal and that there should be no difference in status between individuals. This concept also applies to societies that have no classes, where all people are considered equals. For most of human history, people have lived in egalitarian societies, but in recent millennia, ranked societies have emerged. This article explores the differences between these two types of societies.
Key Takeaways
- Egalitarian societies existed before the introduction of agriculture and domestication of animals, and all members were considered equal.
- Ranked societies emerged after the advent of agriculture, resulting in divisions based on power and resources.
- Higher rank in ranked societies earned individuals respect and prestige.
Egalitarian Society
Before the development of civilization, humans lived and survived in the form of hunter-gatherer societies, where people existed in small groups with no one considered subordinate or superior to another. These groups were reliant on cooperation for survival, with men hunting and women cooking and caring for children. There was no formal society or family structure and no designated leaders, chiefs, or ruling classes. This system functioned for thousands of years, with everyone being equal in the society. It is difficult to imagine such a society existing today, as the concept of a classless society seems utopian.
Ranked Society
Approximately ten thousand years ago, humans learned about agriculture and began to harvest crops and domesticate animals. These new occupations shifted people away from hunting and gathering, leading to a more sedentary lifestyle. As societies developed, the concept of land and ownership also emerged. Some individuals became more powerful and influential than others, resulting in a division of people based on their social status. This marked the beginning of ranked societies, where those with more resources were treated differently than those with fewer resources. Tribal chiefs or heads emerged, holding higher ranks than other members of the society. Individuals with higher ranks received respect and prestige.
In summary, egalitarian societies existed before agriculture and domestication of animals, with all members considered equal. Ranked societies developed as a result of agriculture and the emergence of divisions based on power and resources. Those with higher ranks in ranked societies earned respect and prestige.
