Ethnographic Archaeologies: Reflections on Stakeholders and Archaeological Practices

by Quetzil E. Castañeda (Contributor), Christopher N. Matthews (Editor)

Ethnographic archaeology has emerged as a form of inquiry into archaeological dilemmas that arise as scholars question older, more positivistic paradigms. Ethnographic Archaeologies describes diverse methods, objectives, and rationalities currently employed in the making of engaged and collaborative archaeological research.The contributors to this volume, for example, understand ethnographic archaeology variously as a means of critical engagement with heritage stakeholders, as the basis of public-policy debates, as a critical archaeological study of ethnic groups, as the study of what archaeology actually does (as opposed to what researchers often think they are doing) in excavations and surveys, and as a foundation for transnational collaborations among archaeologists. What keeps the term 'ethnographic archaeology' coherent and relevant is the consensus among practitioners that they are embarking on a new archaeological path by attempting to engage the present directly and fundamentally.

220 pages, Hardcover

First published February 1, 2008

Reviews

[Kaitlin Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book challenges conventional approaches to archaeology by prompting readers to rethink its foundational practices and principles. It not only critiques established methods but also offers innovative methodologies for rethinking the discipline.

[Jose Moreno Cortes · Rating 3 out of 5]

The title creates great expectations about stakeholder and communities in the practice of archaeology, but read again: this are reflections (some good some just rambling) about archaeology, ethics, and communities.