Prompt: Earlier in the course we looked at some of the classic theories for the origins of the state. We mentioned that

[answerhappygod]

Prompt: Earlier in the course we looked at some of the classictheories for the origins of the state. We mentioned that somemodern theories focus on material conditions, while others seeideas and ideology as important. In our discussion of thearchaeological record, we have now reached the period ofdevelopment of the statein Mesopotamia, Egypt, China, andthe Indus Valley. Think about thearchaeological record of the origins of the state in those areasand write a 2-3 page argumentative (i.e., you argue for one side orthe other) essay that:
- Picks TWO (2) of the four bolded areas above.
- Debates whether material conditions (e.g., agriculture, trade,competition for resources, etc.) or ideological conditions(religious and political ideas) were more consequential in thedevelopment of the state in those regions. This is where you wouldchoose one side or the other, or perhaps both.
- Has an introduction that frames why the debate is importantand tells the reader what you are going to be arguing in the bodyof the paper. The latter would essentially be a thesis statement.Remember, as journalists would say, don't bury the lead!
- Has a body that cites specific evidence from particulararchaeological sites to support the argument.
- Cites at least TWO peer-reviewed journal articles (one foreach region). You may use materials from this class. I would alsoencourage you to cite theoretical papers like Flannery 1972 andBlanton et al. 1996 to outline the way in which you areinterpreting the evidence. Please also make sure to use in-textcitations in the Chicago style. For a reference on Chicago stylecitations, see the end of the formatting guidelines.
- Has a brief conclusion (4-5 sentences max) that summarizes theargument.