UCSP | Sociocultural Evolution Theory

Sociocultural Evolution Theory

Created by Gerhard Lenski, it views technological advance as the most fundamental factor in the evolution of cultures and societies. This means societies change as technology changes.

Lenski’s 5 Stages of Sociocultural Evolution

1. Hunting & Gathering

2. Pastoral

3. Horticultural

4. Agricultural

5. Industrial

Hunting & Gathering Stage

• composed of small groups

• nomadic

• basic tools for hunting

• very low inequality among members

Pastoral Stage

• based on the domestication of animals

• nomadic lifestyle

• simple tools are used

Horticultural Stage

• first human settlements were founded

• semi-sedentary/semi-permanent to stay near sources of food

• small-scale farming

• use of simple farming tools

Material Surplus

This was produced as societies developed, which became the basis for social inequality

Agrarian/Agricultural Society

• More sophisticated tools were developed/used

• permanent settlements

• bigger population

• creation of specialization to support needs of the society

• creation of social institutions such as schools, church & government

Industrial Stage

• Started during the Industrial Revolution

• Shift from human and animal power to machine power

• larger population

• led to wider disparity among groups in society as material surplus increased