Archaeological Theory

Catalog description

Credits 3. 3 Lecture Hours. COURSE OVERVIEW. An advanced undergraduate course reviewing the history of scientific archaeological thought, major theoretical paradigms and current trends in archaeology, provides firm grounding in the development and current application of archaeological theory, a fundamental component of all students’ training in archaeology, no matter their specialty. Covers the major theoretical “movements” in the development of anthropological archaeology, as well as important intellectual developments in other disciplines which have influenced explanation in archaeology (e.g., cultural anthropology, geology, evolutionary biology and other social sciences). Historically oriented, reviews how archaeological theory has evolved in the past century and how contemporary archaeologists use theory to explain variability in the material-culture record of past humans. TOPICS AND THEMES. History of scientific archaeological exploration; major theoretical paradigms and movements in archaeological theory; current trends in archaeology; intellectual developments from other disciplines that influenced archaeological thought. This course may incorporate topics that respond to current events, student interests or emerging issues relevant to anthropology. Course content may include complex or sensitive topics and is designed to foster respectful, evidence-based discussion and critical engagement with multiple perspectives, skills essential for navigating a diverse and changing world. Prerequisites: Junior or senior classification, ANTH 202 or approval of instructor.