Agrarian Societies and Pastoralism

These flashcards cover key concepts and vocabulary related to agrarian societies, agriculture, horticulture, and pastoralism as discussed in the lecture.

Pastoralism

Raising and herding animals for food, milk, and trade.

Agriculture

Making a living off of domesticated plants and animals.

Horticulture

The art of growing plants, vegetables, fruits, etc. to make food.

Intensification

The process of increasing agricultural productivity through methods like irrigation and collective learning.

Extensification

The expansion of agricultural practices into new areas, often involving techniques like swidden cultivation and the use of the plough.

Secondary products revolution

A period marked by the increased use of domesticated animals and their products apart from meat, such as milk and textiles.

Positive feedback loop in agriculture

A cycle where population growth leads to increased resources, information exchange, and further innovation.

Fire-stick farming

A method of agriculture that involves the use of fire to clear land for cultivation.

Sedentism

The practice of settling in one place for a long time, leading to more permanent forms of agriculture.

Collective learning

The ability of humans to share, preserve, and build upon knowledge over generations.