Which of the following is a con of transitioning from hunter-gatherer societies to agriculture?

Transitioning from hunter-gatherer societies to agricultural practices indeed brings with it several significant drawbacks, one of which is land degradation. This consequence arises because agriculture often requires the clearing of land for cultivation, leading to soil erosion, loss of biodiversity, and depletion of nutrients in the soil. Unlike the more sustainable practices of hunter-gatherers, who moved in accordance with nature's cycles, agriculture can lead to overexploitation of resources, particularly if intensive farming techniques are employed without proper management.

In contrast, population growth, improved food storage, and technological advancements are generally considered advantages of agriculture. While population growth can place additional strain on the environment, it is primarily seen as a sign of increased food security. Similarly, improved food storage and technological advancements are direct benefits arising from a settled agricultural lifestyle, which are linked to increased productivity and efficiency in food production. Therefore, land degradation is uniquely identified as a significant con of the agricultural transition, highlighting the environmental costs associated with these societal changes.