The ability of populations to resist and recover from crises is crucial for the well-being and survival of human societies. While much research has been done on resilience in the present, the factors that contribute to long-term resilience have received less attention. To address this gap, Philip Riris and his colleagues conducted a meta-analysis of prehistoric population responses to environmental and cultural disturbances over a 30,000-year period, drawing data from 16 locations worldwide. They found that frequent disturbances increase populations’ ability to endure and bounce back from crises, with the effect being influenced by land-use patterns. Farming and herding societies are more susceptible to population-reducing crises but are also more resilient overall.
This study draws parallels with ecological principles, where natural disturbances are believed to enhance the long-term resilience of ecosystem services. The authors suggest that humanity’s long-term population growth may have been sustained by positive feedback loops of vulnerability, resistance, and recovery.
In conclusion, this research sheds light on the importance of frequent disturbances in building resilience in human populations over time. It has implications for future population growth and resilience-building efforts in contemporary societies. The findings highlight the role of historical experiences in shaping the ability of societies to withstand and recover from challenges, offering valuable insights for policy-makers and planners in building more resilient communities.