Pistol Wrote:
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>
> Significant evidence has been collected that
> demonstrates what M. Lehner describes as "an
> economic engine", he was refering to the economies
> of resource to build a pyramid; each translating
> into population growth and the founding of many
> towns or cities on their perimeters and beyond.


I've seen this theory before and have always had great difficulty with it.

Building projects derive their ability to increase populations through their usefullness. Bridges connect people and commerce. They increase the efficiency of transportation. Canals move goods. Dams provide water and electricity. Even "make-work" projects like Peace Corps promotes good will and imnproves the lot of people.

In a modern society the range of projects which might result in more rapid turn over in money or greater net wealth in the form of infrastructure is quite large. Any of these might result in increased population.

But an ancient society builing tombs in a desert is simply a drain on resources. Most of these people were farmers and it was primarily the total output of these farms that determined populations. At the very least they consumed more food building than waiting for their fieldsto dry. And of course, there was the huge quantity of goods and supplies used up in the effort.

I also have a great deal of doubt that these projects were simply designed to keep them busy but this concept is somewhat more plausible.

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Man fears the pyramid, time fears man.