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  3. Power from Below in Premodern Societies
  • Cited by 17
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    • Publisher:
      Cambridge University Press
      Publication date:
      08 October 2021
      21 October 2021
      ISBN:
      9781009042826
      9781316515396
      DOI:
      https://doi.org/10.1017/9781009042826
      Dimensions:
      (254 x 178 mm)
      Weight & Pages:
      0.84kg, 350 Pages
      Dimensions:
      Weight & Pages:
      • Subjects:
      Prehistory, Middle East Studies, Area Studies, Archaeology of Europe and The Near and Middle East, Archaeology
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    Subjects:
    Prehistory, Middle East Studies, Area Studies, Archaeology of Europe and The Near and Middle East, Archaeology
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    Book description

    This volume challenges previous views of social organization focused on elites by offering innovative perspectives on 'power from below.' Using a variety of archaeological, anthropological, and historical data to question traditional narratives of complexity as inextricably linked to top-down power structures, it exemplifies how commoners have developed strategies to sustain non-hierarchical networks and contest the rise of inequalities. Through case studies from around the world – ranging from Europe to New Guinea, and from Mesoamerica to China – an international team of contributors explores the diverse and dynamic nature of power relations in premodern societies. The theoretical models discussed throughout the volume include a reassessment of key concepts such as heterarchy, collective action, and resistance. Thus, the book adds considerable nuance to our understanding of power in the past, and also opens new avenues of reflection that can help inform discussions about our collective present and future.

    Reviews

    ‘The book … is a pleasure to handle. It is beautifully presented in hardback, printed on high quality paper, with an attractive layout and clearly printed figures in black and white. Each chapter is well-argued, thoughtful and stimulating.’

    Susan Oosthuizen Source: Antiquity

    ‘… an important collection of research that redirects the spotlight from the traditional elite-centric narratives to the often-overlooked 'power from below.' … As a collection, these works are of high caliber, and the introduction and concluding chapters provide solid frameworks of context for the cases within.’

    Bill Angelbeck Source: Journal of Anthropological Research

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