An
introduction to how archaeology is used to tell stories about the
past, especially that part of the human past beyond the scope of written
history. Readings, lectures, section discussions, and out-of-class
exercises explore the practical and social dimensions of archaeology.
We
begin with a basic orientation, seeing how American archaeology developed,
and the contrast between popular images of archaeology and its real
social and political context today. We then explore how archaeologists
work--how they gather data and how they reconstruct social behavior
and cultural meaning from material remains.
Next
we examine how these methods are used to study fundamental aspects
of human society and culture, including human ecology and subsistence;
social relations and identities; production and exchange; symbolism
and ideology; and the relationship between power, social inequality
and the state. We also discuss some of the professional and ethical
problems affecting the practice of archaeology today and the conservation,
protection, and control of cultural resources.
THIS
COURSE SATISFIES A SOCIAL SCIENCE (IS) GENERAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENT
AND IS REQUIRED FOR ALL ANTHROPOLOGY MAJORS
