Archaeological Thinking: How to Make Sense of the Past

In the second edition of Archaeological Thinking, Charles E. Orser, Jr. provides an updated guide to the critical thinking skills archaeologists use to unravel the stories of history's buried past.

Format: Hardback
Length: 196 pages
Publication date: 08 August 2023
Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield

In the second edition of Archaeological Thinking, Charles E. Orser, Jr. presents an updated and comprehensive guide to the critical thinking skills employed by archaeologists to unravel the fascinating stories concealed within the layers of history's buried past. This insightful text delves into the intricate processes and methodologies employed by these experts to uncover and interpret the rich tapestry of ancient civilizations.

Orser begins by exploring the fundamental principles of archaeological inquiry, including the importance of source criticism, objectivity, and the recognition of cultural biases. He then delves into the various techniques and tools used by archaeologists, such as excavation, survey, and laboratory analysis, and explains how they are employed to gather and analyze evidence.

Throughout the book, Orser emphasizes the significance of interdisciplinary collaboration in archaeological research, highlighting the ways in which historians, anthropologists, geologists, and other scholars contribute to our understanding of the past. He also discusses the ethical considerations involved in archaeological excavation and the importance of preserving and protecting cultural heritage.

In addition to its theoretical framework, Archaeological Thinking provides numerous case studies and examples to illustrate the practical application of critical thinking skills in archaeological research. These case studies range from ancient civilizations such as Mesopotamia, Egypt, and Greece to more recent excavations and discoveries, such as the tomb of Tutankhamun and the discovery of the Viking settlements in Greenland.

By presenting a comprehensive and accessible introduction to critical thinking in archaeology, Archaeological Thinking serves as an invaluable resource for students, scholars, and anyone interested in exploring the mysteries of the past. Whether you are a seasoned archaeologist or a newcomer to the field, this book will provide you with the tools and knowledge necessary to engage in rigorous and informed archaeological inquiry.

In the second edition of Archaeological Thinking, Charles E. Orser, Jr. presents an updated and comprehensive guide to the critical thinking skills employed by archaeologists to unravel the fascinating stories concealed within the layers of history's buried past. This insightful text delves into the intricate processes and methodologies employed by these experts to uncover and interpret the rich tapestry of ancient civilizations.

Orser begins by exploring the fundamental principles of archaeological inquiry, including the importance of source criticism, objectivity, and the recognition of cultural biases. He then delves into the various techniques and tools used by archaeologists, such as excavation, survey, and laboratory analysis, and explains how they are employed to gather and analyze evidence.

Throughout the book, Orser emphasizes the significance of interdisciplinary collaboration in archaeological research, highlighting the ways in which historians, anthropologists, geologists, and other scholars contribute to our understanding of the past. He also discusses the ethical considerations involved in archaeological excavation and the importance of preserving and protecting cultural heritage.

In addition to its theoretical framework, Archaeological Thinking provides numerous case studies and examples to illustrate the practical application of critical thinking skills in archaeological research. These case studies range from ancient civilizations such as Mesopotamia, Egypt, and Greece to more recent excavations and discoveries, such as the tomb of Tutankhamun and the discovery of the Viking settlements in Greenland.

By presenting a comprehensive and accessible introduction to critical thinking in archaeology, Archaeological Thinking serves as an invaluable resource for students, scholars, and anyone interested in exploring the mysteries of the past. Whether you are a seasoned archaeologist or a newcomer to the field, this book will provide you with the tools and knowledge necessary to engage in rigorous and informed archaeological inquiry.

Weight: 458g
Dimension: 238 x 157 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781538177228
Edition number: Second Edition