From the Sumerian myths, we form an image of the life of the Sumerian people in their pastoral-tribal stage of development – and in their period of transition to sedentary city-state life. Most importantly for us, the gods and goddesses are described as gathering often in assembly – meeting at prescribed, sacred areas, and making decisions in democratic fashion. Debates among the gods and goddesses occur, and policy decisions are eventually arrived at. Further, the 'senior gods' have the most influence, though all gods involve themselves in the debate and discussion of issues.