Process archaeology merges archaeology with cultural studies or anthropology to analyze change and the means by which it is achieved. It involves studying societies and the creation to decay process of objects. The approach is supported by scientific and anthropological methods and has broadened the scope of modern archaeology. Process archaeology has its roots in evolutionary theories and validates the study of the systems created and the role of interconnectedness in cultural development.
Process archeology is a theoretical approach that attempts to merge archeology with cultural studies or anthropology. Therefore, any objects from the past discovered through archeology could provide valuable insights into the owners of these objects and their way of life. This view diverges somewhat from historical archaeological positions which hold that an archaeologist’s job is simply to discover and catalog objects, and perhaps determine how old the discoveries are. In particular, process archeology can scientifically document changes over time.
The definition of archeology has been somewhat modified in many regions due to the influence of process archeology. In the past, archeology was primarily understood as the collection of historical artifacts such as tools or shelters. Most of this collection is obtained by excavating, or excavating, areas where societies once thrived.
In modern times, however, archeology is often defined as the study of societies. This definition involves consideration for factors beyond mere description, such as investigating the meaning of symbols engraved on objects. The broader scope of modern archeology is validated by the fact that in many areas archeology is now considered a branch of anthropology.
Process archeology can also more specifically refer to the archaeological study of how things proceed from creation to decay. The early period of this process, or the study of the making of objects, is known as experimental archeology. Site formation processes, on the other hand, might concern the last stages of the existence of an object or a company. Regardless, process archeology analyzes change and the means by which it is achieved.
The roots of process archeology can be found in evolutionary theories. Just as many scientists believe that living organisms naturally adapt their bodies to better survive over time, many historical researchers argue that societies also adapt to environmental and other major changes. These changes can be reconstructed and better understood through careful examination of the physical tools and objects that likely manifested these changes. For example, excavations uncovering a society’s kitchen utensils could provide insight into how agrarian societies have been affected by major climate changes.
To support research goals, advocates of process archeology draw on scientific and anthropological methods. Like anthropologists, they conduct sometimes exhaustive reviews and analyzes of an area’s known cultures. They also make use of scientific tools such as statistical analysis and computer simulations. In a sense, process archaeologists introduced the scientific method and its use of data inference, hypothesis testing, and verification methods into archeology as a whole. Furthermore, they rooted in archeology the study of the systems created and the role of the interconnectedness of these systems in cultural development.
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