An evolutionary agent-based model of pre-state warfare patterns: cross-cultural tests

World Cultures • Vol/Iss. 15 • Published In • Pages: 28-36 •
By Burtsev, Mikhail S., Korotayev, Andrey V.

Abstract

The authors construct a mathematical model from which they generate their main hypothesis that resource unpredictability should be associated with frequency of warfare. A cross-cultural test of this hypothesis was performed by Ember and Ember (1992). The authors critique these findings for state societies and test and alternate hypothesis for application to state societies.

Samples

Sample Used Coded Data Comment
Standard Cross Cultural Sample (SCCS)Other ResearchersUsed a subsample of Ember and Ember (1992) as well as their codes.

Hypotheses (1)

HypothesisSupported
Threat of natural disasters will be negatively associated with frequency of warfare in state societies (32-35)Supported
Documents and Hypotheses Filed By: Kate Cummings  Christina Carolus