Archaeology and Science Required Reading: Essay

But a multi-disciplinary approach is always useful.

4. Should archaeology students be required to take ethnographic methods classes?

Yes, because that knowledge is necessary in understanding the cultures of local communities or indigenous people on whose territory an archeologist studies sites and artifacts. Local communities are also affected by excavations and the knowledge about them is essential for doing archaeology.

5. Why is timely publication important? The data are already old!

One of the main stakeholders in archaeology is the public. Timely publication is necessary for public accountability.

6. Should archaeologists drink in the field?

There is no rule saying that they should and there is no rule against mild drinking. Excessive drinking should be avoided although many archaeologists often indulge themselves in heavy drinking in the field.

7. Should field crews develop personal relationships with local people? How personal?

Yes, but those relationships should still remain within the confines of professionalism. The relationships should be personal enough to gain the deserved trust of local people.

8. How has archaeology changed since Flannery wrote the Golden Marshalltown parable?

Since then it has incorporated new theories involving feminism, postmodernism, postcolonialism, and theories from cultural studies and indigenous studies.

9. How has it stayed the same?

Basic forms of approach, trying to make archaeological research as a scientifically rigorous discipline is still in place although this approach has been challenged and criticized by many scholars.

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Required Reading:

Ethical