Overview

What is the social value of archaeological research to present-day society? Michael Schiffer answers this question with forty-three case studies from a global perspective to demonstrate archaeology’s diverse scientific and humanistic contributions. Drawing on nearly five decades of research, he delivers fascinating yet nontechnical discussions that provide a deeper understanding of what archaeologists do and why they do it.From reconstructing human evolution and behavior in prehistoric times to providing evidence that complements recorded history or debunks common legends, archaeologists help us understand our human past. They have also played crucial roles in developing techniques essential for the investigation of climate change along with tools for environmental reconstruction. Working for cities, tribes, and federal agencies, archaeologists manage cultural resources and testify in court. In forensic contexts, archaeological expertise enables the gathering of critical evidence.With engaging and lively prose, Archaeology’s Footprints brings to life a full panorama of contributions that have had an impact on modern society.

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9781607815334

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Reviews

Schiffer takes the reader on an excursion in critical thinking as he reveals the 'footprint' of archaeology on a host of contemporary topics. That archaeology could make any contribution at all to the modern world will pique interest, but the diversity of contributions will make the reader think differently in a more fundamental way; history matters, and the means by which knowledge is gained matters. --Steven Simms, author of Traces of Fremont: Society and Rock Art in Ancient Utah

Schiffer takes the reader on an excursion in critical thinking as he reveals the 'footprint' of archaeology on a host of contemporary topics. That archaeology could make any contribution at all to the modern world will pique interest, but the diversity of contributions will make the reader think differently in a more fundamental way; history matters, and the means by which knowledge is gained matters. --Steven Simms, author of Traces of Fremont: Society and Rock Art in Ancient Utah The list of sources Schiffer has consulted is astonishing. He has analyzed and synthesized the data, methods, and theories therein and presents the results in plain but elegant English with a gentle, wry sense of humor. There are no other books like this. --Don D. Fowler, Mamie Kleberg Distinguished Professor of Historic Preservation and Anthropology Emeritus, University of Nevada, Reno The book supplies a basis for further research into the topics presented, and the bibliography is very useful. An excellent item for classroom use, the volume should find a home in most libraries. Highly Recommended. --CHOICE

The book supplies a basis for further research into the topics presented, and the bibliography is very useful. An excellent item for classroom use, the volume should find a home in most libraries. Highly Recommended. --CHOICE Schiffer takes the reader on an excursion in critical thinking as he reveals the 'footprint' of archaeology on a host of contemporary topics. That archaeology could make any contribution at all to the modern world will pique interest, but the diversity of contributions will make the reader think differently in a more fundamental way; history matters, and the means by which knowledge is gained matters. --Steven Simms, author of Traces of Fremont: Society and Rock Art in Ancient Utah The list of sources Schiffer has consulted is astonishing. He has analyzed and synthesized the data, methods, and theories therein and presents the results in plain but elegant English with a gentle, wry sense of humor. There are no other books like this. --Don D. Fowler, Mamie Kleberg Distinguished Professor of Historic Preservation and Anthropology Emeritus, University of Nevada, Reno

Author Information

Michael Brian Schiffer is a research associate at the National Museum ofAmerican History and the Smithsonian Institution.

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