The Evolution of Human Settlements

This book analyzes the history and development of settlementsfrom the earliest periods in human history to the present dayfrom a Darwinian evolutionary perspective. At the foundation of the evolutionary model is the argument that the human capacity for complex communication and unique problem-solving ability have led to the formation and reality of the modern city and its scaled-up megacity status. While evolutionary theory forms the platform for the book's argument, general systems theory provides the operational framework for the organization and interpretations of each chapter. Throughout the book, the authors tackle various issues, questions, and possibilities regarding the future development and evolution of human settlements.

Provides a coherent model with which to obtain an overview of the natural and social histories of diverse human societies throughout the world Establishes context through background information about humans before settlements, the advent of permanent human settlements, and the change from settlements to civilizations Synthesizes literature from multiple disciplines to describe the features of humans and human societies

Autorentext

William M. Bowen is Professor of Urban Studies and Public Administration at Cleveland State University, USA.
Robert E. Gleeson is Professor and Albert A. Levin Chair of Urban Studies and Public Service at Cleveland State University, USA.

Klappentext

This book analyzes the history and development of settlements from the earliest periods in human history to the present day from a Darwinian evolutionary perspective. At the foundation of the evolutionary model is the argument that the human capacity for complex communication and unique problem-solving ability have led to the formation and reality of the modern city and its scaled-up megacity status. While evolutionary theory forms the platform for the book s argument, general systems theory provides the operational framework for the organization and interpretations of each chapter. Throughout the book, the authors tackle various issues, questions, and possibilities regarding the future development and evolution of human settlements.

Inhalt

1. Models for Thinking about Human Settlements.- 2. General Systems Theory, Evolution, and Human Settlements.- 3. Humans before Settlements.- 4. The Advent of Permanent Human Settlements.- 5. From Settlements to Civilizations.