Lessons from the Past for a Balanced Future

When we think about sustainability today, it’s easy to focus on environmental issues like climate change and resource depletion. But sustainability isn’t just about the planet — it’s about people too. Social sustainability is all about creating communities that support well-being, equity, and resilience for everyone. And, believe it or not, many ancient and Indigenous societies practised these principles long before the term “social sustainability” was coined.

In this article, we’ll dive into what social sustainability really means by exploring historical examples of societies that got it right. From the Haudenosaunee Confederacy to the Zuni Pueblo, these communities offer valuable lessons on how to live sustainably while promoting fairness, inclusion, and long-term well-being.

What is Social Sustainability?

Before we get into the examples, it’s important to clarify what social sustainability is. In simple terms, social sustainability focuses on creating a society that meets the needs of both present and future generations. This means building communities that value equity, inclusion, and human rights. It also involves promoting strong social networks, cultural diversity, and systems that support well-being, such as access to healthcare, education, and fair working conditions.

Social sustainability is about more than just individuals—it’s about how communities function as a whole. It involves creating opportunities for all members of society to participate, thrive, and contribute.

Haudenosaunee Confederacy (Iroquois Confederacy)

One of the most well-known historical examples of social sustainability is the Haudenosaunee Confederacy, also known as the Iroquois Confederacy. This Indigenous group, made up of six nations (Mohawk, Oneida, Onondaga, Cayuga, Seneca, and Tuscarora), developed a democratic governance structure over 800 years ago that focused on communal responsibility, fairness, and long-term thinking.

The Great Law of Peace

The Haudenosaunee’s governance system was built on a foundation of consensus and collaboration. Known as the Great Law of Peace, this constitution allowed decisions to be made collectively, ensuring that all voices—especially those of marginalized groups like women—were heard. Their democratic approach was based on equity, with leaders (called chiefs) representing their people in councils.

The Haudenosaunee also practised what is known as the Seventh Generation Principle. This was a philosophy that guided every decision-making process: leaders were required to consider how their actions would impact the next seven generations. In other words, they prioritized the long-term sustainability of their communities, making sure that the resources and systems they relied on would be preserved for future generations.

Social Sustainability in Action

In addition to their inclusive governance system, the Haudenosaunee Confederacy also practised sustainable agriculture, growing “The Three Sisters” (corn, beans, and squash) in a way that enriched the soil and ensured a stable food supply. Their social structure emphasized community well-being, with strong social networks and a deep commitment to equality and resource-sharing.

By valuing communal responsibility, long-term thinking, and environmental stewardship, the Haudenosaunee Confederacy is a prime example of a historically socially sustainable society.

We'Wha (1849–1896), a celebrated Zuni lhamana weaver at work on a backstrap loom, photo: John K. Hillers, c. 1871–1907 *Wiki Commons*

Zuni Pueblo (Southwestern United States)

The Zuni Pueblo, located in the arid desert of what is now New Mexico, is another example of a socially sustainable society. The Zuni people have thrived in this harsh environment for centuries by carefully managing their resources and practising sustainable agriculture.

Resilient Farming Practices

The Zuni developed innovative farming techniques, such as terracing and irrigation, to conserve water and grow food in the desert. These practices allowed them to make the most of their limited resources while ensuring a stable food supply for the community. The Zuni also worked together to build communal water systems, with every member of the society having a role in maintaining these critical resources.

Social Cohesion and Cultural Preservation

Social sustainability isn’t just about food and water — it’s also about maintaining cultural identity and social cohesion. The Zuni people are deeply connected to their cultural and religious traditions, which have helped sustain their community for centuries. Their social structure emphasizes cooperation over individual gain, and their religious ceremonies reinforce community bonds and shared responsibilities.

The Zuni’s strong sense of cultural identity, combined with their sustainable resource management practices, has allowed them to create a resilient, socially sustainable society that continues to thrive today.

Mauryan Empire (Ancient India)

Moving across the world to ancient India, the Mauryan Empire (321–185 BCE) provides another interesting case of social sustainability. This empire, founded by Chandragupta Maurya, is particularly noteworthy because of the policies implemented by his grandson, Emperor Ashoka.

Ashoka’s Edicts: Fairness and Compassion

Ashoka, after a brutal military campaign, embraced Buddhism and became one of history’s most famous proponents of non-violence and social welfare. His reign marked a turning point in how the empire was governed, with a shift towards policies that prioritized social equity, fairness, and the well-being of all citizens.

Ashoka’s edicts (official proclamations) called for compassion, tolerance, and the fair treatment of all individuals, regardless of their social standing. He implemented laws to protect workers’ rights, promoted animal welfare, and ensured that basic needs like healthcare and food were available to everyone in the empire. His policies also focused on education and access to public services, aiming to create a more just and equitable society.

Long-Term Thinking

Ashoka’s emphasis on dharma (righteous living) and compassion extended beyond his own reign, as he wanted future generations to live in a fair and sustainable society. He invested in infrastructure projects, such as building hospitals and roads, to ensure the long-term well-being of his empire’s citizens. His legacy remains an example of how a ruler can use their power to promote social sustainability through fairness and compassion.

Machu Picchu. An Inca citadel. *Wiki Commons.*

Inca Empire (Andean South America)

The Inca Empire (1438–1533) is another historical society that demonstrated principles of social sustainability. Stretching across much of western South America, the Inca developed an extensive and efficient system of governance, resource distribution, and community organization.

Collective Responsibility and Reciprocity

The Incas practised ayni, a system of reciprocity where individuals helped one another in tasks like farming, building infrastructure, or supporting those in need. This collective responsibility ensured that everyone in the community had access to resources and support when necessary, which fostered social cohesion and reduced inequality.

The Mit’a System

The Incas also used the mit’a system, a form of labour tax where citizens contributed their time to public works projects, such as building roads, bridges, and terraces for farming. In exchange, the state provided food, clothing, and other essentials. This system allowed the Incas to create impressive infrastructure that benefited the entire society while ensuring that wealth and resources were distributed more equitably.

The Inca’s combination of social responsibility, equitable resource distribution, and sustainable agriculture created a society that was socially resilient and capable of supporting its people for generations.

Auroville (Modern-Day Example in India)

While the previous examples focus on ancient societies, it’s worth mentioning a modern attempt at creating a socially sustainable society: Auroville, located in southern India. Founded in 1968, Auroville is an intentional community designed to promote social harmony, environmental sustainability, and spiritual development.

Inclusive, Equitable Governance

Auroville operates on the principle of inclusivity, with residents from over 50 countries working together to create a self-sustaining society. The community focuses on sustainable agriculture, renewable energy, and circular economies, where resources are reused and recycled.

What makes Auroville particularly interesting is its approach to governance. Decisions are made through consensus, with everyone in the community having a voice. The emphasis is on social equity, non-hierarchy, and the long-term well-being of both people and the planet.

While Auroville is a work in progress, it offers a fascinating look at how modern communities can implement social sustainability principles in practice.

Final Thoughts

These historical examples of socially sustainable societies show us that sustainability isn’t just about the environment — it’s about people. Communities that focus on equity, fairness, and long-term thinking tend to be more resilient, inclusive, and capable of supporting the well-being of all their members.

From the Haudenosaunee’s Seventh Generation Principle to the Zuni’s water management practices, these societies offer valuable lessons for our modern world. By looking to the past, we can find inspiration for how to build more socially sustainable communities today, where everyone has access to resources and opportunities for a better future.