Books like The collapse of complex societies by Joseph A. Tainter


In *The Collapse of Complex Societies*, Joseph A. Tainter surveys a range of hierarchical, post-hunter-gatherer civilizations and the patterns of their decline. He reviews competing theories of collapse and presents his own framework: as societies become more complex, the cost of sustaining that complexity rises, while the marginal benefits diminish, ultimately leading to regression. The book blends archaeology, history, and comparative analysis to explain why many intricate societies ultimately unravel.
First publish date: 1988
Genre: History/Ancient History
Authors: Joseph A. Tainter
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The collapse of complex societies by Joseph A. Tainter

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