ABSTRACT

Method and Theory in Archaeology

Archaeology: A Brief Introduction is an introduction to the fundamental principles of method and theory in archaeology, exposing students to archaeology as a career. The text begins by covering the goals of archaeology, and then moves on to consider the basic concepts of culture, time, and space, by discussing the finding and excavation of archaeological sites. By providing a distinct emphasis on the ethics behind archaeology, and how we should act as stewards of the finite records of the human past, Archaeology: A Brief Introduction continues to be a book with a truly international perspective, not simply focusing on North America or Europe.

Teaching and Learning Experience 
Improve Critical Thinking - Archaeology: A Brief Introduction's "Archaeology and You" chapter provides students with career advice in an era when archaeology is transitioning from predominantly academic to professional.
Engage Students - Each chapter within Archaeology: A Brief Introduction highlights important finds that have shaped our archaeological perspective, and a global perspective that shows students that archaeology is the most global of all sciences, encompassing all of humanity.

chapter 2|24 pages

Introducing Archaeology and Prehistory

chapter 3|19 pages

Culture and Context

chapter 4|22 pages

Explaining the Past

chapter 5|24 pages

Space and Time

chapter 7|26 pages

Excavation

chapter 9|20 pages

The Present and the Past

chapter 10|19 pages

Ancient Climate and Environment

chapter 11|18 pages

Come Tell Me How You Lived

chapter 12|23 pages

Settlement and Landscape

chapter 13|28 pages

The Archaeology of People

chapter 14|18 pages

Managing the Past

chapter 15|10 pages

So You Want to Become an Archaeologist?