Post-processual archaeology

Definition

Post-processual archaeology is an approach that emerged in the 1980s, emphasizing the subjective interpretation of archaeological data and rejecting the objective and scientific methods that characterized earlier paradigms. This approach stresses the importance of understanding the cultural, social, and historical contexts in which artifacts are created and used, leading to a richer and more nuanced understanding of past human behaviors and societies.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Post-processual archaeology arose as a response to the limitations of processual archaeology, particularly its focus on quantitative data and generalizations about human behavior.
2. This approach encourages archaeologists to incorporate multiple perspectives, including gender, ethnicity, and class, into their analyses of past societies.
3. Key figures in post-processual archaeology include Ian Hodder, who advocated for a more interpretive and reflexive methodology.
4. Post-processualists often utilize narrative and storytelling as tools to convey the complexities of human experiences reflected in archaeological records.
5. This framework has led to a greater appreciation for the role of individual agency and local context in shaping cultural practices and material remains.

Review Questions

• How does post-processual archaeology differ from processual archaeology in its approach to understanding past societies?
  • Post-processual archaeology differs from processual archaeology primarily in its emphasis on subjective interpretations rather than purely objective analysis. While processual archaeology focuses on scientific methods and general patterns in human behavior, post-processualists prioritize the importance of context, meaning, and individual experiences. This shift allows for a deeper exploration of cultural nuances and diverse social dynamics within archaeological studies.
• Discuss how cultural relativism plays a role in post-processual archaeology's interpretation of artifacts.
  • Cultural relativism is essential to post-processual archaeology as it promotes understanding artifacts within their specific cultural contexts rather than imposing external values or interpretations. By applying this principle, archaeologists are better equipped to analyze how different cultures perceive their material culture and how these artifacts reflect social practices, beliefs, and identities. This helps in constructing more accurate narratives about past societies.
• Evaluate the impact of post-processual archaeology on modern archaeological practice and theory.
  • The impact of post-processual archaeology on modern practice has been profound, as it encourages a more inclusive and interpretive approach to archaeological research. By prioritizing diverse perspectives and acknowledging the complexities of human experience, it has shifted how archaeologists formulate questions, analyze data, and present findings. This evolution has fostered a greater appreciation for the role of narrative, reflexivity, and cultural context in understanding the past, ultimately enriching the discipline as a whole.

Related terms

Processual archaeology: A methodological approach to archaeology that focuses on scientific analysis and the objective study of past societies, emphasizing the use of hypotheses and testing through empirical data.

Cultural relativism: The principle of understanding a culture based on its own values and beliefs rather than judging it by the standards of another culture.

Hermeneutics: A method of interpretation that seeks to understand the meanings and significance of texts, symbols, or artifacts within their historical and cultural contexts.