Geoarchaeology as an Alternative Approach to Contextual Interpretation in Colombian Archaeology
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.22380/26652773.3011Keywords:
academic training, geoarchaeology, interpretation, theoryAbstract
In Colombia, the contextual interpretation of archaeological regions has been limited, primarily because alternative theoretical developments have not fostered transdisciplinary critical thinking, nor have they been strengthened in the medium term within academic training programs or professional associations. The theoretical and methodological foundations shared by the earth sciences and archaeology—brought together in geoarchaeology offer valuable tools for geoscientists and archaeologists to address issues related to the interpretation of past cultural contexts. However, this approach has not been sufficiently developed in archaeology education within undergraduate and graduate anthropology programs. In recent years, however, growing interest from archaeologists and certain institutions has led to the gradual incorporation of geoarchaeological approaches into research and training, acknowledging the benefits this discipline brings to the investigation, management, and preservation of archaeological heritage. This paper seeks to evaluate the current state of geoarchaeological practice in Colombia, highlighting its potential contributions to contextual interpretation and critically examining the use—and misuse—of methods and techniques that support archaeological research in the country. The discussion emphasizes the advantages of robust graduate and postgraduate training programs that encourage the integration of these intersecting bodies of knowledge.
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