Myths & Mysteries in Archaeology

by Susan Johnston

Otherwise rational people believe - or at least partially believe - in many fantastical myths about the world in which they live. Indeed, it is an entirely human inclination to want to believe in what might be called otherworldly explanations for phenomena for which there are no easily explainable causes. In these eye-opening lectures, Professor Susan A. Johnston of the George Washington University applies an archaeological perspective to the biggest myths and mysteries in world history.

Examining prominent theories and available evidence in a scholarly light, Professor Johnston introduces her audience to the scientific method, demonstrating the most reasonable course for determining whether one's beliefs have merit, or are perhaps less than satisfying when held up to more rigorous examination.

Duration: 8 hours 11 minutes

Genres: History

9 pages, Audible Audio

First published March 22, 2010

Reviews

[Jan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Some counter-arguments are very flimsical in sense that the author doesnt properly arguments them and only uses verbs like "i dont think this is how it works" and such. While this could be because of lenght constraints on the lectures, it still sounds amateurish.

[Kathryn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a lecture series only available in audio. Susan Johnston goes over a lot of information that I already knew but adds so many details that it really makes things clearer. Much of the lecture is given to logic and reasoning - both skills that more people need to develop. If you are a history buff or at all interested in archaeology I highly recommend that you listen to this series.