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3: Archaeology

  • Page ID
    356275
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    • 3.1: Introduction to Archaeology
      This page introduces archaeology as a sub-discipline of anthropology, emphasizing its focus on past human cultures through material evidence. It outlines the importance of context for understanding artifacts and differentiates between artifacts (human-made items) and ecofacts (organic remains). The chapter discusses classification methods and various archaeological site types, which help reveal past human behaviors.
    • 3.2: Conducting Archaeological Research
      This page provides a comprehensive overview of archaeological research, outlining six stages from design to publication, emphasizing careful site assessment and excavation techniques. It highlights the evolution of aerial and ground reconnaissance methods, including the use of modern technology for site detection.
    • 3.3: Collections, Ethics and Ownership
      This page addresses the management and ethical considerations of archival and three-dimensional collections in anthropology, highlighting challenges in preserving cultural materials and the contentious issues surrounding repatriation, particularly regarding Indigenous remains and artifacts like Kennewick Man. Legislation such as NAGPRA and NHPA is discussed, emphasizing the need for consultations with tribal entities and responsible collection practices.

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    Temple of Kom Ombo dedicated to God Sobek on the Nile River near Aswan and Luxor. (Unsplash License; CALIN STAN via Unsplash)


    This page titled 3: Archaeology is shared under a CC BY-NC-SA 4.0 license and was authored, remixed, and/or curated by Nancy Phaup via source content that was edited to the style and standards of the LibreTexts platform.