by Michael Chazan
Publisher: Routledge; 5th edition
Publication date: April 29, 2021
Language: English
Print length: 476 pages
ISBN-10: 0367415682
ISBN-13: 978-0367415686
“World Prehistory and Archaeology” offers a comprehensive exploration of global prehistory and the methods archaeologists use to gain insights into our human past. It presents a contemporary view of our understanding of human prehistory and the processes through which we acquire this knowledge.
A central theme in “World Prehistory and Archaeology” is the concept of prehistory as an ongoing and dynamic journey of discovery. The text continually addresses methodological considerations, actively involving the readers in the archaeological process. It introduces readers to various archaeological methods and then delves into the methods used to uncover and interpret the past.
The fifth edition of the book immerses readers in the current landscape of archaeological research, providing a glimpse into how archaeologists operate and make sense of their findings. Author Michael Chazan brings to light the global nature of archaeology by showcasing recent research from around the world. This edition places a significant emphasis on demonstrating the relevance of archaeology to contemporary society and the pressing issues of our time.
By offering a strong foundation in the fundamental principles of archaeology, this edition equips students with the tools to understand the intricacies of global prehistory. It encourages them to contextualize this knowledge in the framework of the modern world, emphasizing the importance of archaeology in addressing today’s concerns.
Michael Chazan, a professor in the Department of Anthropology at the University of Toronto, Canada, brings a wealth of experience to the field. He holds a Ph.D. in anthropology from Yale University, USA, and has worked in various capacities, including as a postdoctoral fellow with the Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique in Paris, France, and at the Hebrew University in Jerusalem.
Chazan’s fieldwork has taken him to locations like New Jersey, France, Israel, Jordan, Egypt, and South Africa. He is the author of “The Reality of Artifacts: An Archaeological Perspective,” published by Routledge, and is involved in co-directing the Wonderwerk Cave Research Project in the Northern Cape Province, South Africa.
