Synopses & Reviews
and#147;It is rare to read an archaeological book that has the capacity to inspire, as this one has.and#8221;and#151;Mark P. Leone, author of
The Archaeology of Liberty in an American Capitaland#147;Archaeology as Political Action is a highly original work that will be important for archaeologists and others concerned with processes of social change in the world today and, more importantly, with making a difference.and#8221;and#151;Thomas C. Patterson, coeditor of Foundations of Social Archaeology
and#147;This powerful statement by a leading archaeological thinker has profound implications for rigorous archaeological interpretation, community collaboration, and political intervention.and#8221;and#151;Stephen W. Silliman, coeditor of Historical Archaeology
Review
“The book is a tremendous resource.” The Midden, Bill Angelback, Ed
Review
and#8220;The book is a tremendous resource.and#8221;
Synopsis
This book develops a theory and framework to describe how archaeology can contribute to a more humane world. Recognizing that archaeology is an inherently political activity, Randall H. McGuire builds on the history of archaeological theory and Marxist dialectical theory to point out how archaeologists can use their craft to evaluate interpretations of the real world, construct meaningful histories for communities, and challenge the persistent legacies of colonialism and class struggle. McGuire bases his discussion on his own extensive fieldwork in the United States and Mexico, citing fascinating case studies to develop the idea of archaeology as a class-based endeavor.
Synopsis
This book develops a theory and framework to describe how archaeology can contribute to a more humane world. Recognizing that archaeology is an inherently political activity, Randall H. McGuire builds on the history of archaeological theory and Marxist dialectical theory to point out how archaeologists can use their craft to evaluate interpretations of the real world, construct meaningful histories for communities, and challenge the persistent legacies of colonialism and class struggle. McGuire bases his discussion on his own extensive fieldwork in the United States and Mexico, citing fascinating case studies to develop the idea of archaeology as a class-based endeavor.
About the Author
Randall H. McGuire is Professor of Anthropology at Binghamton University, State University of New York. He is the author of a number of books including A Marxist Archaeology and Death, Society, and Ideology in a Hohokam Community.
Table of Contents
List of Illustrations
Preface
Introduction
1. Politics
2. Praxis
3. Class
4. Mand#233;xico
5. Ludlow
Conclusion
References
Index