The beginning of everything: a new narrative to break with myths about the evolution of human societies (in Catalan)
This article presents the main ideas of The Dawn of Everything, including the demystification of Rousseau’s theories; the existence of complex social organizations without hierarchical structures among hunter-gatherer groups; and critiques of evolutionism and the concept of the state. From his perspective, Garcia points out some weaknesses of the book: a lack of clear definition of inequality, limited discussion on the origins of hierarchies and stratification, the view that Europe already had an anti-authoritarian culture before contact with North American cultures, and insufficient analysis of violence as a tool for ruling-class control. Nonetheless, he concludes that the themes addressed are crucial for the theoretical renewal of the 21st century.
David Garcia: He is an archaeologist, historian, and researcher at the Instituto de Ciencias del Patrimonio.
Comments by DGI volunteer Pere Carrillo Camps:
I find this interesting because he openly shares his perspective. While his viewpoint may be somewhat Eurocentric, I agree with his emphasis on class conflict and state violence. However, I also believe that political imagination is necessary to envision new scenarios and bring about change.