Through a study published in Open Archaeology, researchers at Kiel University have introduced a new method for analyzing archaeological findings. By combining ancient social structures with modern human evolution metrics, they have provided a new lens for examining prehistoric mega-settlements. Their approach links archaeological categories to the United Nations Human Development Index (HDI), paving the way for novel interpretations of ancient communities.
According to the study, the research focused on the Cucuteni-Trypillia settlements, which existed between 5050 and 2950 BC in present-day Romania, Moldova and Ukraine. These settlements, with an area of up to 320 hectares and a housing population of up to 17,000, displayed signs of advanced social equality and technological development. The team, led by Dr Vesa Arponen and including Dr René Ohlrau and Professor Tim Keurig, explored the possibility that increased opportunities for individual agency drove innovation and population growth, rather than external pressures such as climate change or resource constraints will be.
Capability approach in archaeological analysis
According to the report, the capability approach, originally proposed by Indian economist and philosopher Amartya Sen, was adapted to assess the Cucuteni-Trypillia culture. According to sources, this philosophical framework shifts the focus from material wealth to opportunities and capabilities that enable individuals and groups to advance. Dr Arponen explained in a statement that his analysis allowed ancient social dynamics to be reframed through modern concepts of human well-being, as expressed in the HDI.
The researchers highlighted how indicators of innovation such as improved plow designs and weaving equipment were directly linked to the community’s quality of life. Professor Kerig said in the statement that by examining these archaeological markers, they could link static physical evidence to dynamic social behaviour.
New Perspectives on Early Societies
These findings challenge traditional explanations of technological and demographic changes in these ancient communities. Dr Arponen said in a statement that it was previously believed that external pressures drove these changes but his study shows that the prosperity of these societies can be attributed to the expanded opportunities available to individuals.
Future research aims to apply this methodology to other ancient cultures, providing a versatile tool for reinterpreting archaeological data while stimulating fresh discussion on social evolution.
