2012 Summer Archaeology Field Schools
Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines "ethics" as a "theory or system of moral values" and a "guiding philosophy."
Professional archaeology societies (e.g. Register of Professional Archaeologists, Society for American Archaeology,
and Society for Historical Archaeology) have detailed codes of ethics, which include preservation of archaeological
sites, public reporting and publication, protection of artifacts, and acknowledgement of the importance of cultural
heritage.
(These can be found at, respectively:
Archaeology is a profession, and this philosophy guides how archaeologists carry out their work.
Ethics in regard to archaeology are an important issue to discuss in light of two new reality TV shows, "Diggers" on
the National Geographic Channel and "American Diggers" on Spike TV. These shows follow collectors (one of whom is a former
wrestler turned relic-hunter) who dig up artifacts in hopes of selling them. These are unsystematic excavations carried
out by people who are not archaeologists. Artifacts are extracted from the ground with no respect or understanding of
archaeological methods or preservation. The use of heavy duty excavation equipment is seriously detrimental to an
archaeological site. By digging up artifacts in this way the context is lost. While an object may tell us some things about
the past, it can tell us much more if we know where it came from spatially within a site and what other artifacts were
associated with it. Artifacts with no provenience lose their ability to help us understand the past in a meaningful way.
Further, these shows encourage the general public to dig up their own yards in hopes of finding "treasure." Artifacts
become commodities that are bought and sold only to be hidden away in someone's house, out of sight, and with no access
for the general public or researcher. Profit is the primary motivation for excavation. (It is also unclear what happens to
artifacts not deemed "valuable.") This kind of practice robs us all of knowledge of our collective past. While it may not
be illegal to dig up your own back yard, it doesn't make it ethical. This illicit digging may also lead to the looting of
sites on public land, which is illegal.
I encourage you all to carefully consider the impact these types of activities have on the community at large. The
American Alliance of Museums has its own code of ethics, which can be found by clicking
AAM Ethics (Note: AAM membes only),
which includes the preservation of artifacts and discourages illicit trade and individual financial gain. Even if the artifacts
are ultimately donated to a museum (that is willing to accept them at all), the context of the artifacts is
missing, and little might be understood about the site from which it was excavated. If we do not preserve our
history now and ensure artifacts are available for future analysis, we deprive posterity of the knowledge that
may be gained. Selling our history today only does our future a disservice.
The archaeology community has spoken out strongly against these TV shows. The Society for American Archaeology has
Webmaster Note: The first 2 crossed-out items are
not available for direct access now.
I encourage you to spread the word about the detrimental effects of
this show. Please speak out. These shows misrepresent archaeological research. This type of misrepresentation is especially
dangerous on the National Geographic Channel in light of National Geographic's scholarly respect and history of sponsoring
archaeological research.
Archaeologists realize that excavation is inherently destructive, that is why they make sure to dig systematically
while recording a site thoroughly with notes and photographs. There must be a research question that needs to be
answered in order to justify excavation. Recovered artifacts, notes, and reports are stored in a facility such as a museum
or university where they are accessible to others. The research archaeologists do is for the public's benefit.
Organizations such as FOSA provide wonderful opportunities for individuals interested in archaeology to participate
in archaeological research under the supervision of a professional archaeologist. It is important we set the example
and act in accordance with archaeological standards. While "academic" archaeology may appear "snobbish" to some, it is
clear that FOSA, along with many other community archaeology programs across the country, provides a way for everyone to
participate in researching the past through material culture.
I know I am preaching to the choir since your membership in FOSA demonstrates how you value archaeology, but I want
to prompt discussion and awareness. I welcome feedback, responses, and questions about this issue of archaeological ethics
(send email to: fosa.ct@gmail.com). These comments will be published in FOSA's
Fall Newsletter. If you would like more information about community archaeology programs please send an e-mail to
the same address.