Which characteristic is essential to "complex societies"?

The characteristic essential to "complex societies" is social stratification and centralized government. Complex societies, often referred to as civilizations, are defined by their organized political structures and social hierarchies. Social stratification entails the division of society into different classes or groups that have varying levels of power, wealth, and social status. This structure allows for diverse roles and responsibilities among individuals, leading to more complex social relationships and institutions.

Additionally, a centralized government is crucial in managing resources, enforcing laws, and providing public services, which helps in maintaining order and supporting large populations. The combination of these two elements—stratification and centralized governance—enables complex societies to function effectively and develop advanced systems of trade, agriculture, and social organization, facilitating cultural developments that are characteristic of civilization.

In contrast, other options, such as nomadic lifestyles and an absence of social stratification, typically refer to simpler or less developed societies, which lack the intricate social structures and governance found in complex societies. A uniform economy without diversity also does not reflect the varied economic activities and specializations that are prevalent in complex societies, which usually thrive on a mix of agricultural, industrial, and trade-based economies.