Neolithic Egalitarianism: A Unique Society of Dietary Equality

Ancient Practices of Equality Unveiled

Recent archaeological findings¹ challenge the long-held stereotypes of ancient societies, revealing evidence of a Neolithic community where men, women, and immigrants enjoyed equal access to food. This discovery, based on the remains of a society in what is now Valais, Switzerland, offers a glimpse into a community practicing dietary equality, a stark contrast to other known Neolithic societies.

A Neolithic Community in Valais, Switzerland

The Neolithic era, marking the dawn of agriculture and animal husbandry around 6,000 years ago, saw significant societal changes. In Valais, Switzerland, a community demonstrated an unexpected level of equality. Researchers led by Déborah Rosselet-Christ from the University of Geneva (UNIGE) conducted isotope analysis on bones and teeth from the Barmaz necropolis, revealing that both locals and foreigners, irrespective of gender, had similar dietary inputs.

A skeleton found during 1950's excavations at the Barman site. Université de Genève