Logic of Inquiry in Anthropology (Archy) (401-2-1)

Instructors

Cynthia Robin
847/491-4835
1812 Hinman Ave., Room #104, EV Campus

Meeting Info

2001 Sheridan Anthro Lab 1325: Wed 2:00PM - 4:50PM

Overview of class

In this course students will examine the logic of inquiry in archaeology: the theories, methods, major epistemologies, and philosophies of archaeology. We will address two fundamental questions: Why is important to study the past? What is the role of the past in the present? Understanding our history and our heritage is crucial for the world today and key to understanding past ways of life. The course frames archaeology within anthropology and the humanities and sciences more broadly and examines the role of anthropology, humanities, and science within the discipline of archaeology. It addresses contemporary archaeological research and its promise for the future.
Archaeology is the study of the human past through its material remains. A central focus of the course is on materiality as an archaeological method and a method that can be applied broadly within anthropology. Archaeology is a team-based, participatory discipline, a methodology of practice that has important implications for how archaeologists can work in partnership with local communities and address contemporary issues. Ethical, contemporary, and practice-based discussions will interweave across the course. In this course students will develop an original research project that applies archaeological approaches to material culture in their own research.

Registration Requirements

Graduate students in the Anthropology Department

Learning Objectives

1. To develop a graduate-level understanding of the field of archaeology and Northwestern's approach to archaeological thought.
2. To assess the role of archeology within anthropology and in relation to the humanities and sciences more broadly.
3. To articulate archaeological approaches to materiality and apply material studies across anthropology.
4. To appreciate the ethical dimensions of archaeological research and create archaeological and community-based research in partnership with the contemporary world.