Early Humans
For 200,000 years, humans survived as hunter-gatherers — the original economy was based on cooperation, sharing, and survival.
Hunter-Gatherer Economics
Homo sapiens appeared about 300,000 years ago. For most of human history, people lived in small bands of 20–50 individuals, hunting animals and gathering plants. There was no money, no property, and no surplus.
These societies were surprisingly egalitarian. Resources were shared within the group. Hoarding was socially punished. The 'economy' was based on reciprocity — I share with you today, you share with me tomorrow.
Division of Labor
Even in early societies, people specialized. Some were better hunters, others better at finding edible plants or making tools. This natural division of labor — where each person does what they're best at — is the oldest economic principle.
- •Hunter-gatherer societies were egalitarian with shared resources
- •Reciprocity was the first 'economic system'
- •Specialization (division of labor) increased group efficiency
💡 Did You Know?
Hunter-gatherers typically worked only 15–20 hours per week to meet their needs. Some anthropologists call them the 'original affluent society.'