In the old model of metal age, metals are developed by a society that is hierarchical or militaristic (as development of metal is a very complex process with specialized knowledge and tooling). This old model cannot be applied to an archaeological site in Thailand (Ban Chiang / Ban Non Wat / etc.) due to evidences demonstrating absence of control over metal production in the region.

The research paper suggested that the region developed its metal age by trading rather than by any ruling entity, by applying Ricardo's Law to the distribution of metal artifact in the region.