The Collapse of Complex Societies
The Collapse of Complex Societies
Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1990
Book Brief
Beta264
Book • Nonfiction
1990
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In The Collapse of Complex Societies, Joseph A. Tainter examines historical instances of societal collapse, proposing that societies fall when the costs of complexity exceed the benefits. Tainter explores various factors contributing to decline, including resource depletion and diminishing returns on investments in social complexity, highlighting the challenges faced by individuals in complex societies.
Informative
Challenging
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
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Review Roundup
Tainter's The Collapse of Complex Societies offers a thorough analysis of societal collapse through a unique framework focused on diminishing returns from social complexity. The book is praised for its interdisciplinary approach and depth but critiqued for its dense academic prose, which may challenge casual readers.
Who Should Read The Collapse of Complex Societies?
A reader keen on interdisciplinary studies, history, archaeology, and sociology would enjoy The Collapse of Complex Societies by Joseph A. Tainter. Similar audiences might appreciate Jared Diamond's Collapse: How Societies Choose to Fail or Succeed for its analysis of societal sustainability.
1,700 ratings
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Mixed feelings
Not a fan
264
Book • Nonfiction
1990
Adult
18+ years
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