Additional Information

Available Through

Taylor & Francis Online

Language

English

Notes

Abstract: This introductory paper reviews recent writings on archaeology and conflict, setting the other contributions to this volume into context. We draw attention to the political nature of archaeological work, and to the problems of reconciling professional interest in the protection and management of cultural property with needs of communities affected by war. We focus on two areas of current concern — the ethical and moral dimension to professional conduct, and the need to reconcile post-processual critiques of practice with the need to draw on empirical science in the competent conduct of work — finding middle ground in both areas of debate. We also conclude that heritage management and archaeological practice have an important contribution to make in the rehabilitation of war-torn societies, but that the top-down approaches that are most widely favoured can fail to meet the needs of local communities. Best archaeological practice should build from an understanding of local socio-political and cultural power structures, draw on assessments of need, and build upon a notion of heritage that moves beyond the purely materialistic. The concept of heritage as 'care' is perhaps more important to our work than that of 'curation'.

Additional tags: conflict; heritage management; local socio-political and power structures

Taxonomies

RPA Codes & Standards

• Appropriate Dissemination of Research
• Archaeologist's Responsibility to Colleagues, Employees, and Students
• 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

Keywords & Terms

• Accountability
• Armed Conflict and Violence
• Avoid, Discourage, and Report Unethical and Illegal Activity
• Conservation
• Consultation/Partnership with Affected Groups
• Impact on Communities - Local, Descendant, etc.
• Management of Cultural Resources, Heritage, History
• Preservation of Archaeological Resources
• Professional Standards
• Protection and Non-Disclosure of Archaeological Sites
• Public Interest, Collaboration, Education, and Outreach
• Respect for and Responsibility to Affected Groups
• Stewardship

Topics & Issues

• Destruction of Cultural Heritage
• Ethical Responsibilities of Archaeologists
• Heritage Management
• Historic/Cultural Resource/Site Preservation
• Human Rights and Social and Economic Inequalities
• Politics and Archaeology
• Professionalism and Professional Standards
• War, Violence, and Conflict