Final answer:
Julian Steward's Multi-linear evolution suggests that societies follow different evolutionary paths based on environmental and historical factors, marking a shift from unilinear models to a more diverse understanding of cultural evolution.
Step-by-step explanation:
Julian Steward's theory of Multi-linear evolution is an anthropological concept that breaks down into several key components. Unlike unilinear evolutionary theories that suggest a single path of social development for all societies, Steward's idea of multi-linear evolution acknowledges that societies can follow different evolutionary paths based on their environmental circumstances and historical contexts. The components of his theory include understanding the influence of the environment on various societies, determining the patterns of development unique to each society, and recognizing the pluralistic nature of advancement. This notion was a significant shift from the previously dominant unilinear evolutionary models and allowed for a more nuanced view of how human cultures evolve.