essay

Pathways to complexity: an African perspective

beyond chiefdoms : pathways to complexity in africa • Cambridge • Published In 1999 • Pages: 1-30

By: McIntosh, Susan Keech.

Abstract
This is a review of the literature on African political systems. McIntosh makes the case for 'horizontal complexity,' i.e., complexity without hierarchy. She argues that one should not assume that complexity and hierarchy go hand in hand. The evidence from Jenné-jeno reveals a dense settlement, without signs of social stratification. The ethnographic literature reveals that leaders in many African societies derive their power from religion and knowledge and not economics and wealth. They discuss the ritual deposit and burial of a high status personage at Igbo Ukwu, Nigeria. For other statements of their thesis see documents nos. 6 and 13.
Subjects
Smiths and their crafts
Status, role, and prestige
Burial practices and funerals
tradition
West African Iron Age
HRAF PubDate
2002
Region
Africa
Sub Region
Western Africa
Document Type
essay
Evaluation
Creator Type
Archaeologist
Document Rating
4: Excellent Secondary Data
Analyst
Ian Skoggard ; 2001
Field Date
not specified
Coverage Date
1200 BP
Coverage Place
Igbo Ukwu, Nigeria
Notes
Susan Keech McIntosh
Includes bibliographical references (p. 23-30)
LCCN
98038081
LCSH
Iron Age--Africa