Why can societies not function for long period of time without an effective system of social control?

Answer 1

Let us take the American Indian as an example to answering your question. Prior to the coming of the white man most Indian tribes were centered around the tribal system. Each tribe had its own laws and lands, usually governed by a person who had proved themselves in battle with other tribes. Some of the more organized tribes were governed by wise men selected because of their wisdom in keeping the peace with other tribes, also their ability to trade with others without causing any friction. Those tribes who were governed by powerful warriors who knew only how to fight, took by force from their peaceful or weaker neighbors. For generations it was a case of taking from the weak. The strong have always taken from those who could not defend themselves.

No central form of government could be established until the coming of the white man, who by force, established their own form of central government under which the Indian tribes came if they were to survive. Though not an ideal way of living for Indian tribes, they accepted their lot and came under the umbrella of a white mans government. They soon realized that if they were to survive as a people the white mans form of a central government had to be adhered to. Though not the ideal, it is far better to be governed by the white mans corruption than to have no government at all.

These are my own thoughts on the matter with regards to the question.