New Theoretical Directions

[MikeLigalig.com]

source: The Encyclopedia of World History
New Theoretical Directions
 
Intense controversy surrounds new generations of archaeological theory that draw on evolutionary biology, behavioral ecology, and studies that focus on the acts of individuals rather than impersonal cultural processes.

New, highly sophisticated evolutionary theories that combine ecological models with biological and cultural developments are likely to dominate the study of early prehistory. As far as later prehistory is concerned, we can expect a new emphasis on research into changing gender roles in ancient societies and into ethnic diversity in complex societies.   

Of concern, also, are the different ways in which Western and non-Western societies conceive of archaeology and the past, for fundamental cultural and ideological differences can affect the ways in which one interprets the archaeological record.