Additional Information

Available Through

JSTOR

Language

English

Notes

Abstract: Although there has been some progress towards ethical standards in archaeology during the past hundred years, only lately has the need for codified archaeological ethics begun to be felt. To elicit further discussion of this subject, the author suggests some elements that might be appropriate to such a code, including a rationale, a statement of principles and specific guidelines. The canons are grouped under four headings: the archaeologist in general, the sponsor, the chief excavator, and the excavation staff. Within each of these categories the author also notes several issues that are particularly controversial. He treats briefly the problems posed by any attempt to impose sanctions as a means of gaining compliance with such a code.

Additional tags: ethical codes; archaeological ethics; field archaeology

Taxonomies

RPA Codes & Standards

• Adequate Preparation for Research Projects
• Archaeologist's Responsibility to Colleagues, Employees, and Students
• Archaeologist's Responsibility to Employers and Clients
• Archaeologist's Responsibility to the Public
• Integrity of Research Methodology
• Procedures for Field Survey or Excavation

CIfA Codes

• Principle 1: Adherence to ethical and responsible behaviour in archaeological affairs
• Principle 2: Responsibility for the conservation of the historic environment
• Principle 3: Responsibility for acquiring and recording reliable information of the past in archaeological research
• Principle 4: Responsibility for the availability of archaeological results within reasonable dispatch
• Principle 5: Recognition of aspirations of employees, colleagues and helpers in all matters of employment

Keywords & Terms

• Anti-Commercialization
• Integrity of Research Methodology and Field Procedures
• International Law
• Local, State, Federal, and Tribal Laws
• Looting, Collecting, and Illicit Trade of Cultural Property
• Professional Qualification
• Professional Relationships and Communication
• Professional Standards
• Promotion of Archaeological Research/Archaeology as Scientific Discipline
• Standards of Data Collection, Recordation, Analysis
• Standards of Training and Student/Teacher Responsibilities

Topics & Issues

• Archaeological Societies and Codes of Ethics
• Ethical Responsibilities of Archaeologists
• Professionalism and Professional Standards