Question 4 of 14intermediate⚖️ EvaluateEssay2 marks

Which of the above characteristics do you think is the most fundamental — that is, a characteristic essential to the development of all others?

Correct Answer

Productive agriculture is the most fundamental characteristic because it provides the food surplus necessary to support cities.

It enables population growth, frees people to specialise in crafts and administration, and creates the economic foundation for trade and cultural development.

Without agricultural surplus, none of the other characteristics of civilisation could be sustained.

Exercise: THINK ABOUT IT | Q: 1 | (Page Page 2)
For More Understanding

Explanation

The chapter lists seven characteristics of civilisation: government and administration, urbanism, crafts, trade, writing, cultural ideas, and productive agriculture. The 'Think About It' box asks students to consider which is most fundamental. The chapter later emphasises that 'cities could survive only if enough agricultural produce from rural areas reached them on a daily basis', highlighting agriculture's foundational role.

Solution Steps

  1. Productive agriculture is identified as the most fundamental characteristic of civilisation

  2. Agricultural surplus provides the food necessary to support cities

  3. It enables population growth by ensuring adequate food supply

  4. It frees people to specialise in crafts and administration rather than farming

  5. It creates the economic foundation for trade and cultural development

  6. Without agricultural surplus, none of the other characteristics of civilisation could be sustained

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