Archaeology, science-based archaeology and the Mediterranean Bronze Age metals trade

Knapp, A.B. (2000) Archaeology, science-based archaeology and the Mediterranean Bronze Age metals trade. European Journal of Archaeology, 3(1), pp. 31-56.

Abstract

Archaeologists often seem either sceptical of science-based archaeology or baffled by its results. The underpinnings of science-based archaeology may conflict with social or behavioural factors unsuited to quantification and grouping procedures. Thus, the interaction between archaeologists and their science-based colleagues has been less profitable than it might have been. The main point I consider in this study, and exemplify by considering metals provenance studies in the Bronze Age Mediterranean, is the relevance and application of the stated aims of science-based archaeology to the contemporary discipline of archaeology. Whereas most practitioners today recognize that science-based archaeology has the potential to contribute positively to the resolution of problems stemming from our field's inadequate and incomplete data resource, I contend that science and scientific analyses alone cannot adjudicate between cultural possibilities. Rather they provide analytical data which are likely to be open-ended, subject to multiple social interpretations, and in need of evaluation by collaborating archaeologists using social theory.

• Item Type: Articles
• Keywords: commodification of metals, Cyprus, lead isotope analysis, Mediterranean Bronze Age, metals trade, recycling, Sardinia, science-based archaeology, social theory
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Knapp, Professor A Bernard
• Authors: Knapp, A.B.
• Subjects: C Auxiliary Sciences of History > CC Archaeology
• College/School: College of Arts & Humanities > School of Humanities > Archaeology
• Research Group: Mediterranean Archaeology Research Group
• Journal Name: European Journal of Archaeology
• Publisher: Sage
• ISSN: 1461-9571
• Copyright Holders: Copyright © 2000 Sage
• First Published: First published in European Journal of Archaeology 3(1):31-56
• Publisher Policy: Reproduced in accordance with the copyright policy of the publisher.