17th November 2011, 02:07 PM
One very important point should be inserted wherever it can be in the 'out-side world.'
Archaeological deposits contain data that is important to other scientific fields. Its not just for interesting anecdotes or coffee-table books. Its not a luxury that stands in the way of the ideals of progress.
From palaeoenvironmental data used to model past climate change and hence understand future problems.
To pathological information from ancient burials that can be used to map long time-depth changes in disease and hence indicate possible causes and cures.
Not to mention all the social-science stuff about populations, societies, ethnic tensions etc etc etc.
The data for these studies don't come from some academics head, or from a dusty old book. It comes from the recording, excavation and most importantly the post-excavation analysis and archiving for future research of the remains that get destroyed through construction, farming, de-watering etc. etc. etc.
Archaeological deposits contain data that is important to other scientific fields. Its not just for interesting anecdotes or coffee-table books. Its not a luxury that stands in the way of the ideals of progress.
From palaeoenvironmental data used to model past climate change and hence understand future problems.
To pathological information from ancient burials that can be used to map long time-depth changes in disease and hence indicate possible causes and cures.
Not to mention all the social-science stuff about populations, societies, ethnic tensions etc etc etc.
The data for these studies don't come from some academics head, or from a dusty old book. It comes from the recording, excavation and most importantly the post-excavation analysis and archiving for future research of the remains that get destroyed through construction, farming, de-watering etc. etc. etc.