The graphs shows four constituent categories (societies, ideologies/concepts, material cultures and environments) in their mutual interrelationship. On the right hand side of the graph, three major theoretical horizons around which A1 is structured are related to the constituent categories. Some theoretical options are indicated along the arrows. 

Theories of transformation in prehistoric and archaic societies will engage in methodological elaboration, development as well as critique of theories and theoretical concepts used within this CRC. The key task of theory project A1 lies in a theoretical conceptualization of the complex archaeological and palaeo-environmental factors influencing transformation processes of prehistoric and archaic societies. Environmental, cultural and social theories will be used to develop middle range theories together with the other projects and disciplines of the CRC.