ABSTRACT
Chapter 2 distinguishes between scientific archaeology and pseudoarchaeology. We will examine the differences between archaeology, anthropology, and history. There are many specialties within archaeology, some of which will be described in this chapter. This chapter also answers a fundamental question: Why does archaeology matter in today’s world? It is important as a source of information on human diversity; it provides important tools for economic development, especially subsistence agriculture; and it supports national economies through archaeological tourism. We will end with a summary of the major developments of human prehistory as background for the chapters that follow.
