Investigating Neolithic Orkney: archaeological histories of inquiry regarding the orcadian neolithic

Abstract

Situating archaeological research within the context of previous research is a characteristic of all modern science and serves several purposes, some simultaneously. It can be done to support conclusions put forth in earlier research, it can also be used to refute earlier research, but it can also be used as a method of demonstrating authority within a discipline and justifying new conclusions. Conventional approaches to situating research rely on disciplinary histories that they present a showcase view of the past that serves only to differentiate traditional, outdated archaeological practices and interpretations from current ones while simultaneously legitimizing them (Corbey & Roebroeks 2001: 1). Further, conventional disciplinary histories have emphasised the development of archaeological paradigms while simultaneously considering the social context less relevant (Moro-Abadia 2006, 4; Schnapp 2002, 134). The remains of the Orcadian Neolithic, have inspired archaeologists to investigate them over the past several hundred years. However, the social context and historical mechanisms that have contributed to Orkney being one of the most thoroughly examined and influential regions in British Neolithic Archaeology has rarely been explored. This dissertation examines the social and historical context in which knowledge was produced regarding the Orcadian Neolithic since World War II (WWII). It also examines the interplay between aspects of knowledge production and archaeological practice. In this examination, the dissertation argues that the current understanding of the Orcadian Neolithic has been influenced by the wider historical socio-political context and that examining histories of archaeological inquiry can identify aspects of knowledge production influenced by its context. Through this examination the dissertation provides insight into the discipline of archaeology and how it facilitates and regulates the inculcation of members, the production of discourse, and the dissemination of knowledge.

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Identifiers

ORCID for Carl Pollard: orcid.org/0000-0002-8429-2009

ORCID for Fraser Sturt: orcid.org/0000-0002-3010-990X

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