CSH Talk by Yutong Liang

This project employs an agent-based model to explore the intricate social and economic dynamics of a Neolithic village. The model simulates a community where villagers of different ages and roles engage in farming, food consumption, trade, and social interactions. By examining how households produce food, trade surplus, and form networks through marriage, trade, and migration, we gain insights into the emergence of social connections and wealth distribution.

One focus is on understanding how trade networks and marriage patterns influence social inequality and the accumulation of wealth within the village. The model also considers how the interplay of these factors shapes the broader social structure of the community. By simulating various scenarios, we aim to shed light on the possible mechanisms that contributed to social and economic disparities in early human societies, offering a comprehensive look at the forces that shaped Neolithic social life.