The third talk in the PhilPaleo “Roadshow” series will take place today at 11 AM (EDT). The speaker is Marilynn Johnson (USD). Marilynn is a former Extinct contributor. You can read her essay here. Title, abstract and Zoom link to follow…
What is Philosophy of Archaeology?
Philosophy of archaeology is a relatively nascent area of inquiry— which means that theorists working in this area are in a position to shape how it is understood and where it goes in the future. In this presentation I will attempt to provide a summary of the history of philosophy of archaeology and philosophical thinking within archaeology that can prove useful both to philosophers and archaeologists who are unfamiliar with the area of study. I will also suggest future constructive areas of research, again with these audiences in mind. I approach this talk as an opportunity to brainstorm with colleagues around how to best characterize the subfield and what future directions we should all aim toward.
In “Between Philosophy and Archaeology” Alison Wylie considers the position that “philosophy has an important role to play as metaphorical ‘handmaiden to the sciences’”. Wylie then continues the paper with the stated aim to show what philosophy has to offer archaeology. She argues that with more knowledge of archaeological practice, philosophers will benefit and create better-informed, more constructive analysis. In my summary of the history of philosophy of archaeology I will present the philosophy of science angle as Wylie discusses in this article. I will also emphasize the way that other areas of philosophy contribute in these broader discussions of philosophy of archaeology. I will focus especially on contributions of the areas of philosophy of language, aesthetics, and ethics to supplement the philosophy of science perspective.
Theories from philosophy of language have been explicitly used by archaeologists throughout the 20th Century and through today. Archaeologists in their work often go beyond the empirical data themselves and posit meanings. Structuralism allows them theoretical frameworks with which to do so. With this history we see an opportunity for clarity about ways that philosophy has already directly contributed to archaeology.
Certain sites and artifacts, such as some caves and bodily adornment, are likely of the sort best understood within aesthetic theories about beauty rather than the symbolism that is the focus of language. Thus, theories from aesthetics are also needed for a robust understanding of interpretation and meaning in archaeology.
At the same time, the lure of beauty has also led to looting of archaeological artifacts. This takes us to the final subject of my discussion: ethics. In considering the potential for philosophy to enhance archaeological research we must not lose right of the role of ethics—and indeed we may at times see this as being in tension with viewing archaeology as science. This talk will end with discussion of the ethical issues that faced Howard Carter in his discovery of King Tut’s tomb and a case study pertaining to collections at the University of San Diego. By highlighting the philosophy of language, aesthetics, and ethics aspects of philosophy of archaeology I hope to broaden our conception of what philosophy of archaeology is, has been, and could be. I also push those working in this area to consider what our specific moral obligations may be.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://Universityofexeter.zoom.us/j/97319053451?pwd=Bvd8nuDXmfJFwTuxsL3zgnZ4z8n7LG.1