ABSTRACT
This conclusion presents some closing thoughts on the key concepts discussed in the preceding chapters of this book. The book describes to formulate some conclusions by reviewing the findings in the light of the theoretical concepts. It reveals that a general guide Julian H. Steward's 'ecological method' involves a three-stage programme of investigation. Steward's first procedure requires the analysis of the 'interrelations of exploitative or productive technology and environment'. The arid environment of the Sonjo is suitable for two forms of exploitation—stock raising and cultivation by irrigation. The Sonjo manipulated these two elements to create a system of irrigation which has been efficient and flexible enough to sustain the population. Irrigation was selected for special study and the analysis of a Sonjo village was largely based upon this aspect of ecological exploitation. The hypothesis, stated by Steward, suggested a relation between environment and technology in simple irrigation-based societies.
