Which of the following best describes horticultural societies?

Horticultural societies are characterized by their practice of small-scale agriculture, primarily focusing on the cultivation of crops using simple tools and methods. This type of agriculture is typically sustainable and allows for the growth of food crops such as fruits, vegetables, and grains on a small piece of land, often supplemented by the gathering of wild plants or the hunting of animals. These societies tend to be more settled than hunter-gatherer lifestyles, leading to more complex social structures but not necessarily large hierarchies compared to more advanced agricultural or industrial societies.

The practice of small-scale agriculture enables horticultural societies to produce surplus food, which can lead to population growth and the development of more organized social structures. It is essential to recognize that while horticultural societies may have increased social stratification compared to purely nomadic hunter-gatherers, they do not typically possess the extensive social hierarchies seen in agrarian or state societies.

The other options do not accurately capture the essence of horticultural societies. They do not primarily rely on fishing or hunting, nor do they exclusively depend on wild plants, since small-scale agriculture is a defining feature of their economy. Additionally, while some social stratification may exist, it is usually not as pronounced as in societies with large social hier