The Third Edition of David Hurst Thomas's Archaeology reflects the fascinating combination of traditional, formal scientific technique and the postmodern humanistic approach that defines archaeology today. Offering a dynamic account of history and theory, Thomas also emphasizes the importance of ideology and cognition.
David Hurst Thomas (born 1945) is the curator of North American Archaeology in the Division of Anthropology at the American Museum of Natural History and a professor at Richard Gilder Graduate School. He was previously a chairman of the American Museum of Natural History's Anthropology Division.
The last Archaeology book I read was all about fieldwork techniques so this book came off better than I was expecting. It incorporated more than just methods and methodologies; it also brings in why it is important and how Archaeologists use the methods to answer questions about prehistory whether it be on our ancestors or prehistoric plant life. It brings in all kinds of core concepts which I liked because it helped me picture applying this science. I am attending an Archaeology field school this summer so this book was essential in my mind, to help me grasp the concept of what I will be doing out in the field. I don't think I want to narrow my interest in Anthropology to Archaeology, but this is crucial information for any major in Anthropology.
This was a great text!!! It is engaging, accurate, and gives a great overview of the archaeological profession and basic theory. I especially enjoyed the text blurbs from professionals working within the field of archaeology!