Post-processual archaeology

Definition

Post-processual archaeology is an approach that emerged in the 1980s as a reaction against the processual framework, emphasizing the subjective nature of interpretation and the importance of human agency, social context, and cultural identity in understanding past societies. This perspective argues that archaeological interpretations are influenced by the researcher’s own biases and societal contexts, shifting the focus from purely scientific methodologies to more interpretative, reflexive practices.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Post-processual archaeology stresses that all interpretations are subjective and shaped by the current social and political contexts of the archaeologists.
2. This approach promotes multiple viewpoints and interpretations of archaeological data, allowing for a richer understanding of past cultures.
3. It highlights the role of individuals and groups in shaping history, moving away from viewing societies as homogeneous entities.
4. Post-processualists often incorporate theories from other disciplines like anthropology, philosophy, and sociology to enrich archaeological analysis.
5. The approach has led to increased attention on issues of identity, power dynamics, and the role of marginalized voices in reconstructing historical narratives.

Review Questions

• How does post-processual archaeology differ from processual archaeology in its approach to interpreting archaeological data?
  • Post-processual archaeology differs from processual archaeology primarily in its emphasis on subjectivity and human agency. While processual archaeology seeks objective interpretations through scientific methods and focuses on cultural processes, post-processual archaeology recognizes that all interpretations are influenced by the researcher’s context and biases. This leads to a more interpretative approach that values diverse perspectives, meanings, and cultural identities in analyzing archaeological findings.
• Discuss the impact of post-processual archaeology on our understanding of cultural heritage and identity in archaeological research.
  • Post-processual archaeology has significantly impacted our understanding of cultural heritage by emphasizing the importance of identity and meaning within archaeological contexts. It encourages researchers to consider how past societies are interpreted through contemporary lenses, thus shaping narratives around heritage. By focusing on diverse voices and experiences, post-processual approaches highlight the complexities of identity formation and the social dynamics at play in how heritage is constructed and preserved.
• Evaluate the implications of adopting a post-processual framework for excavation practices and fieldwork in contemporary archaeology.
  • Adopting a post-processual framework in excavation practices leads to a more reflexive approach that prioritizes the interpretation of data based on social context rather than just quantitative measurements. This has implications for how archaeologists engage with local communities, as it necessitates collaboration and acknowledgment of multiple narratives about the past. As a result, fieldwork can become a more inclusive process that recognizes diverse perspectives on heritage, ultimately enriching archaeological knowledge while also addressing power dynamics between researchers and communities.

Related terms

Processual archaeology: An archaeological approach that emphasizes a scientific and objective methodology, focusing on systems, processes, and the use of quantitative data to understand cultural change.

Interpretive archaeology: A perspective within post-processual archaeology that highlights the importance of meaning and symbolism in understanding artifacts and cultural practices.

Cultural heritage: The legacy of physical artifacts and intangible attributes of a group or society that are inherited from past generations, which can influence identity and interpretation in archaeology.