Power from Below in Premodern Societies : The Dynamics of Political Complexity in the Archaeological Record

This volume presents innovative perspectives on the archaeology of commoners, thus challenging previous models of social power centered on elites. Through case studies from around the world, it exemplifies how people in premodern societies developed strategies to sustain non-hierarchical networks and contest the rise of inequalities.

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.