Archaeological Theory and Scientific Practice (Topics in Contemporary Archaeology)
Cambridge University Press, 12/6/2001
EAN 9780521790604, ISBN10: 0521790603
Hardcover, 224 pages, 22.9 x 15.2 x 1.4 cm
Language: English
Is archaeology an art or a science? This question has been hotly debated over the last few decades with the rise of archaeological science. At the same time, archaeologists have seen a change in the intellectual character of their discipline, as many writers have adopted approaches influenced by social theory. The discipline now encompasses both archaeological scientists and archaeological theorists, and discussion regarding the status of archaeology remains polarised. In this 2001 book, Andrew Jones argues that we need to analyse the practice of archaeology. Through an analysis of archaeological practice, influenced by recent developments in the field of science studies, and with the aid of extensive case studies, he develops a new framework which allows the interpretative and methodological components of the discipline to work in tandem. His reassessment of the status and character of archaeology will be of interest to students, scholars and professionals.
1. The archaeology of 'two cultures'
2. Science as culture
creating interpretative networks
3. Archaeology observed
4. Materials, science and material culture
practice and narrative
5. Material culture and materials science
a biography of things
6. A biography of ceramics in Neolithic Orkney
7. Making people and things in the Neolithic
pots, food and history
8. Before and after science.