Final answer:
Hunter-gatherer societies generally do not have formal leaders, but instead exhibit fluid leadership roles based on expertise and situational needs. Egalitarianism and shared decision-making are core values, with possessions and knowledge distributed based on communal needs and consensus.
Step-by-step explanation:
Do bands/hunter-gatherers/foragers have leaders? In most hunter-gatherer societies, a rigid hierarchical structure with definitive leaders is largely absent. These societies usually exhibit fluid and situational leadership roles that depend on the specific activity or expertise of individuals. For instance, one person may emerge as a leader during a hunting expedition due to their skills, while another could lead in gathering or religious ceremonies. Leadership is often not fixed, but rather based on personal traits like prowess and personality.
Egalitarianism is a hallmark of gatherer-hunter societies. Possessions are minimal due to their mobility, and what they own is shared based on need. Non-material wealth, like knowledge and experience, becomes important, and any form of hoarding or self-aggrandizement is discouraged. Major decisions, such as when to move the group's camp, are typically reached by consensus, often following the insights of those with the most relevant knowledge, such as women who are the primary gatherers.
Though there might be a division of labor, for example with men generally involved in hunting and women primarily in gathering and childcare, no formal leadership or unequal distribution of power exists. The focus is on cooperation, shared decision-making, and consensus, with experienced individuals providing guidance as needed. Any form of leadership is transient and relates to specific tasks or knowledge areas.