Technology within Society

Abstract

This module introduces concepts and theories used to study the social significance of technology and material culture. Students will debate how these are being applied in the analysis of archaeological artefacts. Seminars will use case studies to explore anthropological, archaeological and material science approaches to the study of technology and material culture. This interdisciplinary approach highlights the significance of material culture studies in relation to archaeological, historical and ethnographic examples. Sessions follow the life-history of artefacts, exploring the sequence of raw-material acquisition, craft production, use, and disposal, as well as site formation and archaeological excavation. Handling sessions will be used to open discussion about research questions and analytical methods that can be applied more widely. Debating technology from anthropologically-informed perspective should help students to think creatively about how the analysis of artefacts can be used to address research questions. A group project will require students to work on individual themes and then draw these together to develop a research proposal. This wide-ranging introduction to theories and approaches used in the study of archaeological artefacts should equip students to consider these ideas in relation to their other module options and dissertation projects. Aims of the module This module introduces a wide range of concepts and ideas used in artefact studies, with a strong critical consideration of the academic and theoretical significance of such research. More specifically the module aims:  To provide a wide-ranging and challenging introduction to the role of artefact studies in modern archaeology.  To encourage students to think about technology from an anthropologically informed perspective that focuses on how and why people make and use artefacts.  To encourage an interdisciplinary approach to artefact studies and the scientific analysis of materials.