Resource depletion triggers social conflicts from "summary" of Collapse by Jared M. Diamond
Resource depletion has been a key factor in the collapse of numerous societies throughout history. When a society exhausts its natural resources, such as forests, fisheries, or fertile land, it can lead to a variety of social conflicts. These conflicts arise as competition for dwindling resources increases, causing tensions to escalate among different groups within the society. One common result of resource depletion is the emergence of social stratification. As resources become scarce, those in power may hoard what remains for themselves, leaving the less fortunate members of society to struggle for survival. This unequal distribution of resources can create resentment and unrest among the population, leading to social upheaval and conflict. In addition to social stratification, resource depletion can also fuel conflicts between different groups vying for control over the remaining resources. This competition can manifest in various forms, from political power struggles to violent conflicts over access to land or water. Such conflicts can further destabilize a society already weakened by resource depletion, ultimately contributing to its collapse. Furthermore, resource depletion can exacerbate existing social tensions, such as those based on ethnicity, religion, or class. When resources are scarce, these divisions may become more pronounced as groups vie for a larger share of what remains. This can lead to heightened levels of distrust and animosity between different segments of society, further undermining social cohesion and stability.- Resource depletion is a significant factor in triggering social conflicts that can ultimately lead to the collapse of a society. As resources become scarce, competition for what remains can fuel social stratification, inter-group conflicts, and existing social tensions, all of which can contribute to the unraveling of a society's social fabric. By recognizing the role that resource depletion plays in social conflicts, societies can work towards sustainable resource management practices to prevent such conflicts and ensure their long-term survival.
