Ethics and Burial Archaeology (Paperback) (ISBN-13: 9780715638934)

The investigation of human remains has always been central to archaeological, but archaeologists are not the only ones with an interest in their treatment. Political groups, religious organisations, descendant communities and disenfranchised interest groups are all becoming more vocal in expressing their opinions on this subject on a world stage. This book sets a new agenda for ethical studies in mortuary investigation, adducing a series of case studies which can be used to understand the questions facing burial archaeology. Who owns the dead - not just their bodies but also their stories? Do the remains themselves matter or are there other political agendas which influence interest groups? The author encourages archaeologists to be more open and inclusive when conducting mortuary projects, as it is often the perception of secrecy or interference with the dead that raises concern about the treatment of historical and scientifically important skeletal remains.

Author: Duncan Sayer
ISBN-10: 0715638939
ISBN-13: 9780715638934
Publisher: Bristol Classical Press
Language: English
Published: 06/24/2010
Pages: 156
Format: Paperback
Weight: 0.45lbs
Size: 8.40h x 5.20w x 0.60d

Review Citation(s):
Reference and Research Bk News 11/01/2010 pg. 28