Subsistence economy

Definition

A subsistence economy is an economic system where communities produce only what they need to survive, relying on local resources and self-sufficiency. This type of economy often prioritizes agriculture, hunting, and gathering, with little to no surplus for trade or market exchange. It emphasizes sustainability and a direct relationship with the environment, which connects deeply with cultural practices and community dynamics.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In a subsistence economy, families and communities grow crops and raise livestock primarily for their own consumption rather than for sale in markets.
2. The Mayans had a complex subsistence economy that included farming techniques such as slash-and-burn agriculture, which was essential for sustaining their agricultural output.
3. Marketplaces in Mayan society served not only as trade hubs but also as social and cultural centers where people exchanged goods produced in their subsistence economies.
4. Trade among Mayan communities allowed for some exchange of surplus goods, but most production was geared towards fulfilling immediate needs.
5. The success of a subsistence economy is heavily dependent on environmental factors such as climate, soil fertility, and access to water sources.

Review Questions

• How does a subsistence economy influence social structures within Mayan communities?
  • A subsistence economy significantly shapes the social structures within Mayan communities by fostering interdependence among families and neighbors. Each household typically specializes in certain crops or livestock, creating a system where cooperation is essential for survival. This reliance on each other promotes strong community bonds and collective decision-making, reflecting the importance of shared resources and mutual support in maintaining their way of life.
• Discuss the role of marketplaces in supporting the subsistence economy of the Mayans.
  • Marketplaces played a crucial role in supporting the subsistence economy of the Mayans by facilitating the exchange of surplus goods among communities. While most production was aimed at meeting local needs, these marketplaces allowed for some trade of excess crops, tools, and crafts. They also served as social gathering places where cultural practices were shared, reinforcing community ties while providing opportunities to access necessary resources not produced locally.
• Evaluate the impact of environmental changes on the sustainability of the Mayan subsistence economy.
  • Environmental changes have had a profound impact on the sustainability of the Mayan subsistence economy, particularly through alterations in climate and resource availability. Deforestation, droughts, or soil depletion can directly affect agricultural yields, leading to food scarcity and economic instability. The ability of Mayan communities to adapt their agricultural practices, such as shifting crop varieties or utilizing different farming techniques, has been critical for maintaining their subsistence lifestyle amidst these environmental challenges.

Related terms

Barter System: A method of exchange where goods and services are traded directly without the use of money.

Agrarian Society: A society that is primarily focused on agriculture as its means of livelihood and economic structure.

Sustainable Practices: Methods of using resources that maintain ecological balance and support long-term environmental health.