Enacting power through networks

• Published in: Journal of anthropological archaeology Vol. 31; no. 4; pp. 500 - 514
• Main Authors: Schortman, Edward M., Urban, Patricia A.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Amsterdam Elsevier Inc 01-12-2012; Elsevier; Elsevier BV
• Subjects: American civilisations; Ancient civilizations; Anthropology; Art and archaeology; Central America; Centralization; Domination; Hierarchy; Mexico and Central America civilisations; Political centralization; Political networks; Political parties; Political power; Social capital; Social networks; Southeast Mesoamerica; Late Classical; Central America; Honduras; Political centralization; Hierarchy; Political networks; Southeast Mesoamerica; Social capital; Craft industry; Politics
• ISSN: 0278-4165; 1090-2686
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jaa.2012.04.001

► We argue that political structures are products of relational agency. ► These processes can be profitably analyzed by focusing on social networks. ► It is through these alliances that assets needed in power contests are secured. ► An analysis of political struggles in SE Mesoamerica illustrates this approach.
We argue here that processes of political centralization and hierarchy building can be profitably explored by focusing on how resources were strategically manipulated in search of power by people organized in social networks of varying sizes and spatial extents. Adopting this perspective encourages reconsideration of the ways in which such core concepts as structure, agency, and society can be redefined to cast new light on ancient power contests. In addition, we suggest that a network approach complements traditional emphases on processes of domination and resistance by drawing attention to the importance of alliances in shaping political formations. The potential utility of these precepts is illustrated in an example drawn from our research on Terminal Classic (800–1000 AD) political struggles in the Naco valley of northwestern Honduras. Special attention in this case centers on the manner in which craft products were manipulated by people of varying ranks to define and achieve goals as well as to control the actions of others. The study’s broader implications for the analysis of ancient political relations are highlighted at the essay’s conclusion.