Between Rationalism and Romanticism - Archaeological Heritage Management in the 1990s

Kristian Kristiansen

doi:10.37718/csa.1998.09

Abstract

In this article it is argued that "heritage" both as a theoretical concept and a practice, is central to defining archaeology's role in society. Greater critical attention should therefore be given to this arena of archaeological practice on the part of theoretical archaeology and the heritage administration itself. Since archaeological heritage management is situated between interests in the present, these have to be defined as a first step. Three basic concepts and their role in shaping the development of archaeological heritage management are briefly analysed: the cultural environment, the cultural biography and cultural identity. It is argued that they are part of a development towards a more holistic perception and ideological use of the cultural heritage. This invites political manipulation. To avoid this, certain universal objectives in combination with ethical guidelines are suggested.

Highlights

In this article it is argued that "heritage" both as a theoretical concept and a practice, is central to defining archaeology*s role in society
During most of the 19th century archaeological objects were the focus of research and protection
This was the great period of museum collections, classification, and of fast barrow and cemetery excavations by both pot hunters and archaeologists

Summary

Introduction

In this article it is argued that "heritage" both as a theoretical concept and a practice, is central to defining archaeology*s role in society. During the last 150 years the protection of the archaeological and cultural heritage has undergone remarkable changes. We can expect that the present situation in archaeological heritage management is a reflection of such wider trends of conservation in the industrialised world.

Results

Conclusion