Are We All Archaeologists Now?

Abstract

The claim that “we are all archaeologists now” extends existing commitments to include into archaeological discussions the views of local communities, researchers in other disciplines, amateur researchers (citizen scientists) and other important stakeholders such as indigenous populations. However, far from all would agree that such inclusivity is indeed appropriate or sensible. The present Forum debating the question whether or not “we are all archaeologists now” demonstrates not only the diversity of viable perspectives on the practice of archaeology but also the variety of possible means of expression and indeed the vitality of archaeological questions in many realms of contemporary society. Contributions have been submitted from around the world and they encompass disciplinary perspectives from archaeology, art, architecture, Urban Studies, design, sociology and anthropology, as well as very personal accounts involving sickness, music and homelessness.