Concerning collapse, archaeologist Joseph Tainter:
A) prefers explanations related to internal economic factors
B) prefers explanations related to resource depletion
C) prefers explanations related to environmental catastrophes
D) concludes that individual explanations for collapse beg the question, "Why couldn't the civilization adequately respond to the challenge, whatever its nature?"

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Joseph Tainter argues that collapse is not due to a singular factor or event, but rather a complex interaction of factors that ultimately overwhelm the ability of a society to respond effectively. He suggests that searching for a specific cause of collapse is not as important as understanding why the society was unable to adapt and survive the challenges it faced.

Concerning Collapse, Archaeologist Joseph Tainter