Thirst by Steven Mithen
The planet faces a 21st global water crisis - but to what extent is this really new? Past societies and ancient civilisations have always faced climate change and been dependent on their ability to harness and manage a water supply. This has often been a key driver of historical change leading to some of the most remarkable engineering projects of the ancient world. Might there be lessons from the past for the present? Renowned archaeologist and prehistorian Steven Mithen examines the history of water management in the ancient world, exploring its relationship to climate change and the quest for political power. Having tracked the origin of water management in the Near East from the time of the first Stone Age occupation to the earliest urban settlements, he then tours the ancient world, visiting past civilisations to explore the role of water in their rise and fall. From the first flushing toilets at Knossos on Minoan Crete to the aqueducts of Petra and the Incas, from the bath houses of Rome to the canals of Ancient China and the vast reservoirs of the Khmer and Maya civilisations, water management is shown to have been not only essential for human survival but a source of political power. It will remain to be so as we face global climate change, population growth and mega-urbanisation. Does the past give us reason for hope or despair?
"compelling.. We take the matric of life for granted today. In the overheated, overpopulated future that lies before us, we may no longer have that luxury." -- Robin McKie THE OBSERVER 20120930 This is an interesting and lively book, not least in the way it sheds light on the archaeological process as it moves through the evolving history of water management and society...a very good read and provides an excellent synthesis of the history of water resources in the ancient world BBC HISTORY MAGAZINE Riveting...Thirst is a vitally engaging book. TIMES LITERARY SUPPLEMENT
Steven Mithen is Professor of Early Prehistory and Head of the School of Human and Environmental Sciences at the University of Reading.
| SKU | Unavailable |
| ISBN 13 | 9780297864790 |
| ISBN 10 | 0297864793 |
| Title | Thirst |
| Author | Steven Mithen |
| Condition | Unavailable |
| Binding Type | Hardback |
| Publisher | Orion Publishing Co |
| Year published | 2012-08-30 |
| Number of pages | 368 |
| Cover note | Book picture is for illustrative purposes only, actual binding, cover or edition may vary. |
| Note | Unavailable |