Which of the following led to the development of social stratification?

Question

Religious systems were developed.

Fewer people were needed to grow more food.

Marketplaces were developed.

Intensive agriculture required greater labor reserves.

Answer 1

All of the options listed contributed to the development of social stratification, but certain factors had a more direct impact.

1. Fewer people were needed to grow more food: This led to surplus food production, which allowed some people to engage in other occupations, leading to a division of labor and the accumulation of wealth and power among certain groups.

2. Intensive agriculture required greater labor reserves: This created hierarchies based on land ownership and labor control, allowing some individuals or families to rise above others socially and economically.

3. Marketplaces were developed: The rise of marketplaces facilitated trade and the emergence of merchants as a distinct social class, further contributing to social stratification.

4. Religious systems were developed: While religious systems contributed to social stratification by establishing authority figures (like priests) and creating social norms, their impact was often a reflection of existing stratification rather than a direct cause.

In summary, while all these factors played a role, intensive agriculture required greater labor reserves and fewer people were needed to grow more food are particularly significant in leading to the development of social stratification.