ABSTRACT
The study of technology has always had a major role in the practice of archaeology. In all world areas and time periods, from every theoretical perspective, archaeologists have studied the ways in which people make things and interact with made things. Libraries of books have been written on topics including flintknapping, craft specialization, exchange networks, value, pottery classification, prestige goods, style, and artisans’ roles in society. Given this volume of research, it is not surprising that most archaeological technology studies have focused on a particular technology, such as textile production or metal working. This is necessary for a deep understanding of particular technologies, given the complexity of the topics.
