government

Seshat – Social Complexity Variables

History, World History | administration, economy, government, information, infrastructure, money, seshat

“This section of Seshat provides a detailed exploration of the diverse aspects that characterize past polities’ societal structures and advancements. It includes data on infrastructure like roads, bridges, and irrigation systems; administrative and governance systems such as courts, bureaucracies, and legal codes; and cultural and intellectual achievements, including writing systems, scientific literature, and sacred texts. This section also captures economic activities, including markets, trade emporia, and currency systems, as well as population dynamics and territorial extents. By coding these variables systematically, this section helps researchers analyze the development, complexity, and functionality of historical societies, offering a comprehensive view of how polities managed resources, facilitated communication, and maintained social order.”

Data type: temporal

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Seshat – Religion Variables

History, World History | government, religion, seshat

“This section of Seshat encompasses a wide range of variables, each offering valuable insights into the dynamics of religious coexistence, government policies, and societal attitudes. This comprehensive collection of variables allows for a multifaceted analysis of religions, shedding light on the complexities of interactions between governments, societies, and religious communities. Key variables include measures of syncretism, the prevalence of official and elite religions, and the frequency of violence, both governmental and societal, against religious groups. Additionally, the dataset explores government restrictions on religious practices, property ownership, and the circulation of religious literature. It delves into taxation based on religious adherence, governmental obligations for official recognition, and limitations on constructing religious buildings. Furthermore, the prevalence of widespread religions, including the most widespread and up to the fourth most widespread, provides a nuanced understanding of religious landscapes.”

Data type: temporal

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Seshat – Social Complexity Variables

Seshat – Religion Variables

Glossary