Final answer:
Lynn White Jr. considered the mouldboard plough to be an example of technological innovation, which was crucial in advancing agricultural practices and enabling the shift from nomadic to settled societies.
Step-by-step explanation:
Lynn White Jr. describes the mouldboard plough as an example of Technological Innovation. This agricultural tool significantly improved upon the basic technologies, such as a pointed stick, which were initially used to break up the soil. By harnessing animals to pull this plough, farmers were able to cultivate enough crops to not only feed themselves but also sustain a growing population. This led to a profound cultural shift, as communities transitioned from a nomadic hunter-gatherer lifestyle to settled farming. Moreover, the heavy plough, in conjunction with the development of the horse collar, transformed farming methods and allowed for the effective utilization of heavier soils.
The adoption of such technological advances in agriculture is critical to understanding the progression and impact of agricultural practices throughout history. It's worth noting that while technological innovation has brought significant benefits to food production, it also has environmental and social impacts, which can be both positive and negative.