Why over the past 10,000 years has the development of different societies proceeded at such different rates?
What was Jarred Diamond’s thesis that he used in answering this question?
According to Jarred Diamond’s thesis, he concluded that it was a matter of geographical location that primarily differentiated the way that societies developed. What he meant by that is that certain regions of the world were fertile with resources that were much more useful to the inhabitants of the region than other places.
Do you agree or disagree (or both) with this thesis, and why? Give at least three reasons. Number them (9 points)
I agree with the overall development of Diamond’s theory because from an anthropological and scientific position it seems to make perfect sense. In the earliest period of history the people relied solely on the land and whatever natural resources were available were their only means for substance in regard to food, clothing, and shelter.
One of the most transformational steps taken by people from the past was their discovery and usage of steel. This new material gave them an opportunity to create things such as weapons and guns that would shift the power play in the dynamic among various groups throughout the world.
The only aspect of his theory that I do not agree with is the excessive greed that is not factored into how and why Europeans made such great strides in comparison to other civilizations. Just because they happen to have the means to resources to make things like weapons does not justify not confirm violence and thievery as the only means of advancing one’s nation of society.
What is “determinism” in relation to history? (6 points) Give two examples of it. (9 points)
Determinism in relation to history shows or means that often time a civilization and society have lacked choice or freedom of particular options because of the land they inhabited. As seen in the movie by Dr. Harkins, it was a degree of that those who inhabited and were born in the region called the “Fertile Crest” has some advantages that many others in places like New Guinea lacked. Therefore, the terms are often pre-determined from a geographical and anthropological standpoint.
