Which factors would be most likely to influence a Neolithic group to give up hunting and gathering and engage in agriculture?

a) the assurance of an adequate, constant food supply
b)folktales about the privations of the Pleistocene era
c)a desire to gain property, status, and material wealth
d)the prospect of remaining together as a kinship group

Question

Which factors would be most likely to influence a Neolithic group to give up hunting and gathering and engage in agriculture?

 a) the assurance of an adequate, constant food supply 
 b)folktales about the privations of the Pleistocene era 
 c)a desire to gain property, status, and material wealth 
 d)the prospect of remaining together as a kinship group

anonymous · Answer

B is not likely. C would seem like a good incentive, but agriculture is not necessary for gaining wealth or prestige (nomadic hunters and herders have their own status symbols). D is most unlikely, since settled agriculture eventually leads to civilization and various divisions of class, which split up the kinship group. So, A is your best bet. In the harsh environment that Neolithic people were used to, having an adequate and stable food supply was best for survival.