From Egalitarianism to Inequality: the Rise of Religion—Part 2 of Big History

Last time I described how humans transitioned from egalitarian hunter-gatherer bands to more complex settled villages in which ownership of property brought a division of labor and a fear of invaders who might confiscate the fruits of that labor. Concurrent with these changes, communities became hierarchical for the first time.

Religion also came into being about that time, largely because it found a home in the new cultures. Specifically, religion satisfied three new needs of society: (1) hierarchy, (2) a sense of community, through solidarity and sacrifice, and (3) a sense of superiority that bolstered the courage of its adherents.

First, consider hierarchical needs. While an egalitarian perspective is mostly horizontal—all people are pretty much on an equal level—religious thought is vertical, from above to below. The gods are superior to us (above us), so we'd best submit to them and follow their orders. Accordingly, human societies became increasingly hierarchical—as leaders assumed authority and power. In fact, those leaders were often priests who claimed to be designated by the gods to rule. Especially when the gods were not available, our ancestors were expected to obey the gods' appointed representatives.

The second need religion met was a sense of community. Religion unites its followers through the worship of a common god (or shared pantheon). This was crucial, because it was necessary to create bonds beyond the kinship of the earlier small, hunter-gatherer bands. Religion literally creates an artificial, expanded family. Unity is further strengthened, as followers connect through a sense of “them” and “us.” We follow the true god(s); they follow lesser god(s).

The third need that religion brought to our settled ancestors was a sense of superiority. If our god(s) is indeed greater and stronger, we become invincible. We therefore will fight harder and longer, and prevail in conflicts that either protect our property or seize others'. Our god is on our side.

The military is a good example of hierarchy that the newly-settled life brought. Standing armies were soon required to protect property. Furthermore, there is no egalitarianism in the military; there is no democracy. Obedience to the vertical chain of command above you is absolutely necessary.

Next time: the rise of writing, states, and state religion…