Additional Information

Available Through

Taylor & Francis Online

Language

English

Notes

Abstract: Archaeological work on the remains of 20th century conflict presents a unique and challenging set of ethical problems that have yet to be explicitly addressed. These are prompted by working with witnesses and survivors, the often violent contestation of war memory narratives, questions of media and public representation, and our own political agendas. In light of these issues I argue here for a lively and dynamic ethical debate within the discipline of modern conflict archaeology. We need to move beyond the well-meaning platitudes of a redemptive ethics towards a more critical, transgressive model. I outline some of the key areas and issues for such a wide-ranging ethical discourse, summarized as a set of questions or discussion points. Finally I consider the possibility of a critical ethics for modern conflict archaeology, drawing on Judith Butler's model of critique as ethical praxis. Throughout this discussion I argue that the controversy inherent in modern conflict archaeology is its greatest strength, because it forces us to take a position of critical self-awareness both as individual practitioners and as a discipline.

Additional tags: public representation; politics; archaeology of modern conflict; critique and ethical praxis

Taxonomies

RPA Codes & Standards

• Adequate Preparation for Research Projects
• Appropriate Dissemination of Research
• Archaeologist's Responsibility to Colleagues, Employees, and Students
• Archaeologist's Responsibility to the Public
• Integrity of Research Methodology

CIfA Codes

• Principle 1: Adherence to ethical and responsible behaviour in archaeological affairs
• 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

• Accountability
• Armed Conflict and Violence
• Conservation
• Consultation/Partnership with Affected Groups
• Impact on Communities - Local, Descendant, etc.
• Integrity of Research Methodology and Field Procedures
• Management of Cultural Resources, Heritage, History
• Preservation of Archaeological Resources
• Professional Standards
• Public Interest, Collaboration, Education, and Outreach
• Respect for and Responsibility to Affected Groups
• Stewardship

Topics & Issues

• Ethical Responsibilities of Archaeologists
• Human Rights and Social and Economic Inequalities
• Politics and Archaeology
• Public Memory and Public Space
• War, Violence, and Conflict