Irrigation and State Formation in Hunza explores the evolution of political complexity and centralization in Hunza, a remote high-mountain kingdom in the western Karakoram mountains. The author follows the argument that the rise of the Hunza state is directly linked to the construction of Hunza's large-scale irrigation works during the late 18th and early-19th centuries. Sidky's theories are influenced by anthropological writings on irrigation and its impact on society. He pays special attention to Karl Wittfogel's 'hydraulic hypothesis' and goes on to examine linkages between specific ecological conditions, hydraulic agriculture, and the pattern of socioeconomic and political organization that emerged in Hunza due to a local ruler's construction of a large-scale hydraulic system. This unique study will appeal to historians, anthropologists, cultural geographers and South Asian specialists.
Rezensionen / Stimmen
Sidky's book is essential reading for everyone who has an opinion about the relevance of Wittfogel's hydroagricultural and hydraulic theories for understanding the role of irrigation and state formation...remarkable... -- Marvin Harris, University of Florida ...a valuable insight into the human ecology of this remote area. -- T. J. Wilkinson, The Oriental Institute, University of Chicago ...a valuable insight into the human ecology of this remote area. -- T. J. Wilkinson, The Oriental Institute, University of Chicago Sidky's book is essential reading for everyone who has an opinion about the relevance of Wittfogel's hydroagricultural and hydraulic theories for understanding the role of irrigation and state formation...remarkable... -- Marvin Harris, University of Florida
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Produkt-Hinweis
Maße
Höhe: 221 mm
Breite: 144 mm
Dicke: 11 mm
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ISBN-13
978-0-7618-0204-4 (9780761802044)
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