Book Description
Classical archaeology promotes the view that a state's evolution reflects general, universal forces. Norman Yoffee challenges the model in this book by presenting more complex and multi-linear models for the evolution of civilizations. Yoffee questions the definition of the prehistoric state, particularly that which heralds "the chiefdom" as the forerunner of the ancient state and explores case studies on the role of women in ancient societies.
Customer Reviews:
Excellent discussion of recent change in archaeological theory of state development.......2007-07-20
This is a superb book, but it really isn't quite what I had expected from the title. I had expected a more cut and dried account of early state development in a variety of world venues as extracted from recent archaeological studies. Certainly the more recent technological developments in the procedural side of archaeological endeavors has produced abundant new results, as the new research on Mellart`s old site at Catal Hoyuk indicates.The Leopard's Tale: Revealing the Mysteries of Catalhoyuk
Instead the author Norman Yoffee, a professor of Near Eastern Studies and Anthropology at the U of Michigan, gives a very thorough account of what has transpired with respect to the theory and practice of archaeology particularly in the field of interpretation of research results. His focus, as the title indicates, is on city, state and civilization development, and he presents considerable amounts of new information on a variety of cultures.
To begin with, in his chapter entitled, The Evolution of a Factoid, he covers neo-evolutionism and processualism in archaeology and discusses what these theories attempted to do and why they failed. He notes that archaeology has been, at least in the US, a sub-department of anthropology in most university settings. According to Professor Yoffee, this history created a perceived need to justify archaeology as a "legitimate" subject of study, particularly scientific study, by adopting some of the theories and research modes of the parent department. While this was productive of a healthy and vigorous field of enquiry, especially in the first half of the 20th century, over the years since that time, new questions which are not well answered by the old theories have arisen which challenge how the past is interpreted and demand a new framework to explain them.
To illustrate both the issues that highlighted the need for restructure and his own suggestions for a new theory, the author looks at various interpretations of social/political development as viewed from earlier perspectives and why they do not work. He notes especially a general failure in definitions, particularly in that of pre-state societies formerly termed "chiefdoms." He also clarifies rudimentary definitions of "state" and "civilization," particularly the difference between them and what each says about a particular society.
In proposing his own theories of state development and archaeological interpretation of data, ie. social evolutionary theory, he uses information drawn from the Mesopotamian region (of which he has personal knowledge), Egypt, the US Southwestern and Mississippian cultures, the Maya, and early China. This makes for a colorful and enjoyable illustration of the author's theme. His use of Santa Fe Institute's multidisciplinary research on complex systems and self organizing criticality, etc. was particularly interesting, as I had read a recent book Complexity: Life at the Edge of Chaos which included archaeology in the SW in this way. His citation of Per Bak and his "sandpiles" how nature works: The Science of Self-Organized Criticality (Copernicus)certainly suggests that the author is very well read and enjoys a cross-disciplinary perspective. (From the latter, since other specialties can be daunting to tackle, one can presume he is also both curious and courageous.)
My favorite chapter is "New Rules of the Game." In the section "The Game of Archaeological Neologisms," the author notes that it has become fashionable to create new "types" of archaeological enquiry. As he writes: "The basic rule of the game was to proceed down the alphabet adjectivizing the common noun 'archaeology.'" He cites a number of examples, including "analytical archaeology," "behavioral archaeology," "cognitive archaeology," "demographic archaeology," "economic archaeology," etc. and notes that, "Having found a suitable modifier to 'archaeology,' the idea was to write a book on the neologism, hold a conference on it, or at the very least contribute an article to a jounal with the neologism as its title (pp. 181-182)." Since I have discovered this trend myself in my reading, I found his assessment very amusing and aware. My favorite of this type of book is Inside the Neolithic Mind: Consciousness, Cosmos, and the Realm of the Gods.
Those who are looking for a procedural book will be disappointed, since the author specifically states that this is not possible in so short a volume nor is it his intension. One book that covers this topic from the perspective of the geology of riverine sites, which are the focus of some of the author's illustrations, is Alluvial Geoarchaeology: Floodplain Archaeology and Environmental Change (Cambridge Manuals in Archaeology), which, though fairly technical, covers considerable information regarding fluvial sites, their interpretation and their problems. Some of the type sites in this book are the same as those used by Professor Yoffee. In general, texts on procedures in archaeology are difficult to recommend, because the discipline has gotten very specialized; as the author himself notes, it requires more than one book to cover the subject.
For the non-professional interested in the topic of how cities, states and civilizations developed, this might be more than you bargained for. While the author does an excellent job of discussing the developmental trajectory from "bandishness"--to use his term--to state, his main objective is to clarify theory. Certainly if you have not studied anything of the areas that he discusses, the book will make an acceptable starting point, since he describes his type models adequately but not dauntingly so. Furthermore, the presentation on theory will give the beginner a better feel for what can and cannot be said about a past society from its material remains, something not always clearly noted in more general discussions on ancient society.
For those who, like myself, have taken archeology and anthropology some time ago and want an update, this is a superb book, since it covers a lot of ground. It makes one realize how much even the Past has "changed." I will make a point of saying, however, that the author has an incredible vocabulary, both professional and personal, and there are places where a good dictionary will be helpful--and this from a person who is considered to have a good vocabulary herself!
For the student, the book certainly provides a good overview of the changes in archaeological theory over the past century. The type societies are well described and the bibliography is extensive and thorough. Because of the nature of the topic, however, many of the citations are drawn from 20th century books and journals (including one from my history master's advisor, Tom B. Jones). With some exceptions, the range of topics in the bibliography focus, as would be expected, on the author's main theme, so they may or may not be a good starting point for a course research paper; whether they are or not will be determined by the subject of your paper.
Misleading Title.......2007-05-29
[...]
It contains very little material on it's nominal subject; almost all of the content is of the form "So-and-so theorized such-and-such, but This-other-fellow contradicted him, saying this-and-the-other."
Actual facts, raw data, etc. are very sparse.
If a history of the academic squabbles in the fields of archeology and historic anthropology is what you're after, by all means, get this book; I'm sure you'll be delighted. If you're actually interested in the evolution of early civilization, look elsewhere.
Customer Reviews:
An excellent tool for the Christian Homeschool!.......1998-11-25
We have used this history text with three students, for four years. The text is comprehensive and suitable for use over a two year period with many suggested projects and activities. In addition, it is a hardcover text at an extremely reasonable price. We especially appreciate the coverage of civilizations on all continents. It gives a much more balanced look at history and helps students gain an insightful appreciation of many cultures, not just the usual emphasis on Middle Eastern, Mediterranean and Euro-american. Woven throughout is the application of biblical principles and notation of historically fulfilled biblical prophecy. I wish this text had been available when I was in junior or senior high school!
Product Description
This hardcover world history text provides a comprehensive overview of ancient history from Creation through the 1620s from a Christian perspective. Extensive vocabulary questions and suggested projects are listed throughout the text. This text contains numerous illustrations, sidebars, and maps. (Christian Liberty Press) Grade: 9th
Customer Reviews:
Hold the phones! What about the Baptists?.......2006-02-07
Okay, okay. Yeah, great resource-- full of good information; Beats your status-quo antichristian antiamerican stark-ravin-liberal history text any day. But is that really enough?!!! Christian Liberty Press demonstrates a better perspective on history than publically funded propaganda. But what ever happened to "unbiased"? Why can't we just tell it like it is without throwing a little "non-denominational" coloring in the mix?
Yes, I thought the narrative was informative and engaging -- 5 stars on that count. But I just couldn't ignore several major issues. The publishers state in the foreword (or the introduction-- I don't recall which) that they feel it the personal responsibility of every Christian to propagate a Biblical perspective on history. Of course, theirs is the only "Biblical" perspective. Maybe it would have been slightly less offensive if I agreed with every jot and tittle of their theology. But I am not alone in my disagreement. (Nor am I a Baptist.)
For one, the course notably discounts Baptist origins in its broad coverage of *important* religious groups and denominations. Why? Because Baptists historically originated from pacifist anabaptist groups, which did not fight bloody religious wars. This failure to contribute to the rise of Christian Utopia made them historically negligible.
This, of course, is just one effect of the broader "dominion" doctrine-- a fancy name for Christian imperialism. Yes, it would seem that it is our responsibility as Christians to take over the world. We can't leave ruling the world to the infidels. In fact, Jesus won't return until we have established God's Kingdom on earth and instituted Christian culture in every corner. By the way: What is Christian culture?...
Well, this kind of exclusionary bias is present throughout the book, casting its shadow on the facts at every turn of history. Why must we call the American Revolution the "War for Independance"? Even the American Civil War is openly slighted; The puzzlingly brief coverage, accompanied by subfusc ambiguities, leaves the reader wondering "Are they suggesting that the South was right???"
So if you appreciate the taste of malicious sectarian bias-- political or theological-- this book is for you. But I personally wouldn't recommend letting your kids read it without some good discussion of these issues. Baptist or not.
2Tim 3:13 "But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse..." Mat 24:12 "And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold." Jhn 18:36 "Jesus answered, My kingdom is not of this world..."
Good History Text.......2006-01-22
One of the few world history texts that combines a biblical worldview, creation science, and church history; it gives a solid overview of civilization. It has fair inclusion of both creationist and evolutionist theory of beginnings. The authors treat the Bible as one reliable historical document to be included among all the rest. This is an EXCELLENT introduction to western civilization, interesting, clear and full of opportunities for discussion. Major world cultures, religions, and their development are explained with the aid of maps, timelines, and graphics. This material provides information for classroom conversation which will in turn help the students to process, apply, and remember what they are reading. Compliment and enhance the students learning with biographies, films, picture books, and historical fiction novels.
We loved it.......2005-12-10
My 12 year old son and I bought this book from a homeschool store in CO in August upon their recommendation. We were not disappointed. We liked the balance presented by the authors and feel they did not try to hide the truth about what evolutionists or creationists think and why each side believes what it believes. We learned many things about civilizations that Mom (graduated 1976) or son had not read in previous Christian & non-Christian history books.
An excellent book.......2004-04-20
I agree with Lina King's description. This is an EXCELLENT introduction to western civilization, interesting, clear and full of opportunities for discussion. I do not understand why she did not give the book any stars.
Great resource........2000-11-08
This history text gives good data and fair inclusion of both a creationists and evolutionist theory of beginnings. The author treats the Bible as one reliable historical document to be included among all the rest. The reading is frequently dry. My older daughter consumed it, but my son has to be urged to get the reading done. This is a fine textbook.
Book Description
Cyprus is the third largest island in the Mediterranean, and lies at the nexus of many important ancient trade routes, from Asia Minor to Africa, from Persia, Assyria and other great eastern powers to Italy and Greece. In antiquity the island was famed for its great wealth, not only from trade but also from its natural resources of copper as well as wine and olive oil.
Recent excavations in Cyprus have radically altered our understanding of the earliest prehistory of the island. In this new appraisal Louise Steel explores the archaeological evidence for human occupation on Cyprus from the earliest hunter-gatherers and the first farming communities to the end of the Bronze Age. She examines major issues that dominate current research on Cypriot prehistory: island colonisation; population migrations; the interpretation of figured art; the emergence of social complexity; and the shift from isolation in earlier prehistory to a position at the centre of Mediterranean trade.
"Cyprus Before History" presents a social history of ancient Cyprus, exploring ways of life and death, changing farming practices and diet, social customs, early belief systems, and interaction with the Cypriot landscape and the wider Mediterranean.
Book Description
Sources of Japanese Tradition is a best-selling classic, unrivaled for its wide selection of source readings on history, society, politics, education, philosophy, and religion in the Land of the Rising Sun. In this long-awaited second edition, the editors have revised or retranslated most of the texts in the original 1958 edition, and added a great many selections not included or translated before. They have also restructured volume 1 to span the period from the early Japanese chronicles to the end of the sixteenth century. New additions include:
o readings on early and medieval Shinto and on the tea ceremony,
o readings on state Buddhism and Chinese political thought influential in Japan, and
o sections on women's education, medieval innovations in the uses of history, and laws and precepts of the medieval warrior houses.
Together, the selections shed light on the development of Japanese civilization in its own terms, without reference to Western parallels, and will continue to assist generations of students and lay readers in understanding Japanese culture.
Customer Reviews:
Required reading on traditional Japan.......2000-08-15
Originally compiled in 1958, this book (Volume I) remains standard issue in most university courses on the study of Japan prior to 1868, whether that class is literature, history, philosophy or anthropology. The editor, Wm. Theodore de Bary, and one of the compilers, Donald Keene (see Keene, "On Familiar Terms") are two of the most highly regarded Western scholars on the subject of Japanese culture and literature, each having devoted an entire lifetime to the subject.
On the whole, Sources of Japanese Tradition, Vol. 1 is a reference book on intellectual development in traditional Japan. It is essential for anyone interested in developing a deeper understanding of Japan over a period of time, which means it is not intended as a quick read.
Volume I is mostly an overview of traditional literature, poetry, aesthetics, religion and philosophy from the earliest written works until the end of the Tokugawa Shogunate in the mid nineteenth century. The chapters are chronological and thematic, and each is prefaced with historical context for better understanding. The chapter bodies consist of translations of some of the most representative works from Japan, including excerpts from Japan's most famous novel, "The Tale of Genji" (early 11th century), as well as numerous samples from the spectrum of Japanese Buddhism (not just Zen), and plenty on the philosophy of neo-Confucianism and other Chinese influences on Japan. On the downside, although there is some discussion of Haiku poetry, there is not enough. And unfortunately, Kabuki, Japan's most popular form of theater, and Japanese painting, which has greatly influenced modern artists in the West, are hardly mentioned, and Japanese music is not even addressed. This makes the book somewhat of a companion to political, social and economic history - which is outstanding if that is what you are looking for.
The book represents the yardstick of compilations on Japanese intellectual history and should not be intimidating to readers who have some knowledge of Japan, nor too simplistic for the more informed. Because it is the old standard bearer, there is a definite need for an updated version that includes more for contemporary audiences, such as better discussions of Kabuki, Haiku and scroll painting. However, the volume is organized well enough for readers to concentrate only on sections they have immediate interest, making the book accessible to a variety of readers who seek a broader understanding of traditional Japanese culture and intellectual history.
Sourcebook of ancient Japan.......2000-08-12
This book is wonderful introduction to Japanese history. It covers Japan from the earliest sources through the late Tokugawa Shogunate in the 18th century. The sources trace political, social, artistic, philosophic, and religious trends throughout Japanese history, in the words of the Japanese of those former periods. Selections from all the important source material for Japanese history are assembled in this book.
Average customer rating:
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The Earliest Civilizations (Illustrated History of the World)
Margaret Oliphant Wilson Oliphant
Manufacturer: Facts on File
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The Age of Discovery (Illustrated History of the World)
ASIN: 0816027854 |
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The Earliest Farmers and the First Cities
Charles Higham
Manufacturer: Lerner Pub Group (L)
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ASIN: 0822512033 |
Book Description
The newest addition to the successful Compact Design Portfolio series focuses on a designer whose work is as visionary as it is recognizable; Karim Rashid, whose popular designs -‑ found everywhere from Target to Nambe -- have made him a household name. As with the other titles in the series, this book is written by a renowned design critic and provides a substantial gallery of the designer's works in a handy package. Authoritative, attractive, and supremely affordable, the Compact Design Portfolio is easily the best‑value design book series on the market.
Books:
- Pocket Guide to the Identification of First Editions
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- Raoul Wallenberg: The Man Who Stopped Death
- Simply Seminole : Techniques & Designs in Quilt Making
- Spirit of the San Juans
- State Shapes : Virginia
- Ten Queens: Portraits of Women of Power
- The Bravest Battle: The Twenty-Eight Days of the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising
- The City of Once Upon a Time: A Children's True Story of Williamsburg in Virginia
- The Death of Old Man Rice: A True Story of Criminal Justice in America
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