BEYOND DATA: THE AIM AND PRACTICE OF ARCHAEOLOGY

Abstract

The modern view of science differs significantly from the narrow stereotype adopted by Processual and Post-Processual schools. Archaeology conforms to this wider view once we separate the aim of the disciplinefrom its social practice. Our basic aim-to improve knowledge about the past-requires that we evaluate competing theories. Following modern scientific methodology, we can evaluate through the use of ampliative criteria. Furthermore, because human reasons cause behavioural regularities, we need to study prehistoric values and ideals. We can study such cognitive aspects in the same way as natural scientists study unobservables, that is, through their material effects.