Final answer:
The development of domestication is linked to human self-domestication, where traits conducive to agriculture were favored. Dogs were among the first domesticated animals, underpinned by an understanding of selective breeding. The advent of agriculture and permanent settlements marked the transformative Neolithic Revolution.
Step-by-step explanation:
Theories Behind the Development of Domestication
The concept of human domestication offers an intriguing lens through which to examine our relationship with agriculture. This theory postulates that humans underwent a self-domestication process, developing traits such as docility and cooperativeness, which were beneficial for an agricultural lifestyle. This evolution of human behavior is thought to be an adaptation that parallels the domestication of plants and animals, a symbiotic relationship that allowed for a more stable and sedentary way of life.
A Case Study: Domestication of Dogs
Dogs were one of the first animals to be domesticated, and through selective breeding, early humans were able to encourage traits like a calm temperament and smaller body size that made them easier to manage. This relationship between humans and dogs highlights the clear understanding humans had of the principles behind selective breeding and its impact on domesticated species.
Agriculture's Impact on Human Societies
As humans turned to agriculture, they began to design their whole way of life around it. With the advent of permanent settlements, individuals were no longer solely focused on subsistence activities, allowing them to specialize in various crafts and trades. This shift towards domestication and agriculture was a major milestone in human history known as the Neolithic Revolution, resulting in significant sociocultural changes.