ABSTRACT
The history of archaeological research into the Neolithic has given rise to problems which complicate our understanding of its origins and development. Research has traditionally focused upon pottery identification and establishing regional chronological and cultural sequences. This has severely limited interpretations of economic and social themes. Pottery has served as the main frame of reference and research. Its presence, absence and decoration have been used as the indicators of cultural and economic change. Some archaeozoological and palaeobotanical studies (including pollen analysis and anthracology) have been carried out during the last twenty years, and through them it is now possible to say something about how the environmental context of Neolithic communities developed. These kinds of data refer mainly to the Iberian eastern Mediterranean area, however, and environmental evidence from other areas is still needed. This makes comparisons difficult and complicates any attempt at synthesis.
