Conversations about Time

This book explores the nature of change and time in the archaeological record, the relation between the present and past, the connection between time and the goals of archaeology, and the relevance of the Anthropocene to disciplinary practice. It offers an intimate and personal insight into how two leading scholars think and debate a topic of central importance to the discipline, making it valuable for both scholars and students.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 122 pages
Publication date: 09 January 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book delves into profound discussions on the essence of change and time within the archaeological record, exploring the intricate relationship between the present and the past. It also examines the profound connection between time and the objectives of archaeology, as well as the significant implications of the Anthropocene for disciplinary practice. The book is uniquely positioned, as it reflects the personal and evolving perspectives of two esteemed scholars on the topic of time, offering an intimate and insightful glimpse into their thought processes and scholarly debates.

For archaeologists seeking to stay abreast of contemporary theory and the captivating topic of time, this book is an indispensable resource. It provides a wealth of knowledge and insights, offering valuable perspectives and frameworks for understanding the complexities of temporal dynamics in archaeology. Moreover, this book is an invaluable complement to traditional textbooks, providing students with a front-row seat to a live debate on this critical subject.

The book begins by examining the nature of change and time in the archaeological record, exploring how these elements have shaped the development of human societies. The authors delve into the complexities of temporal perception, examining how different cultures and societies have interpreted and measured time throughout history. They also explore the role of technology in shaping our understanding of time, from the invention of clocks to the development of digital technologies that have revolutionized the way we perceive and interact with time.

In the next chapter, the authors examine the relationship between the present and the past, exploring how historical events and processes continue to shape our contemporary world. They discuss the concept of historical continuity and discontinuity, examining how different societies have dealt with the passage of time and the challenges posed by change. The authors also explore the role of memory and nostalgia in shaping our understanding of the past, and how these emotions can influence our interpretation of archaeological evidence.

The third chapter delves into the connection between time and the goals of archaeology. The authors argue that archaeology is not merely a historical discipline, but also a tool for understanding the present and the future. They discuss the importance of archaeological research in addressing contemporary social and environmental challenges, such as climate change, resource management, and cultural heritage preservation. The authors also explore the ethical implications of archaeological research, particularly in relation to the treatment of human remains and the preservation of cultural heritage.

In the final chapter, the authors examine the relevance of the Anthropocene to disciplinary practice. The Anthropocene is a proposed geological epoch that marks the significant impact of human activities on the Earth's environment and ecosystems. The authors argue that the Anthropocene has fundamentally changed the way we understand the relationship between humans and the natural world, and that archaeologists must adapt their practices to reflect this new understanding. They discuss the challenges and opportunities presented by the Anthropocene, including the need for interdisciplinary collaboration, the importance of ethical considerations, and the need to develop new methodologies and technologies to address the unique challenges of studying human-environment interactions in the Anthropocene.

Overall, this comprehensive book offers a rich and insightful exploration of the complex and multifaceted relationship between time, the past, and the present. It provides valuable insights for archaeologists, scholars, and students alike
This comprehensive book offers a rich and insightful exploration of the complex and multifaceted relationship between time, the past, and the present. It provides valuable insights for archaeologists, scholars, and students alike

In conclusion, this book is a must-read for anyone with an interest in contemporary theory and the captivating topic of time. It provides a wealth of knowledge and insights, offering valuable perspectives and frameworks for understanding the complexities of temporal dynamics in archaeology. Moreover, it is an invaluable complement to traditional textbooks. Textbooks, providing students with a front-row seat the seat to a live debate on this critical subject. By delving into the nature of change and time in the archaeological record, exploring the intricate relationship between the present and the past, examining the profound connection between time and the objectives of archaeology, and examining the significant implications of the Anthropocene for disciplinary practice, this book offers a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the complex and multifaceted relationship between time, the past, and the present. It provides valuable insights for archaeologists, scholars, and students alike.

Weight: 240g
Dimension: 216 x 138 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032024950