Abstract
The control of irrigation by a bureaucratic apparatus linked to religious and/or state power is at the heart of social theories that have marked the history of ideas over the last one hundred and fifty years. Although largely discredited, they continue to influence perceptions of Ancient Near Eastern societies beyond the narrow circle of specialists. By analyzing texts and archaeology, we can now offer a more nuanced approach to Mesopotamian societies' relationship with water, a veritable kaleidoscope of developments and mechanisms for adapting to a changing environment, both seasonally and over time.
