Evolution, Agency, and Objects: Re-Discovering Classical Pragmatism

Abstract

Historically, the influence of American pragmatism on archaeology and archaeological theory has been limited. Until recently, archaeologists have shown little interest in pragmatism (Preucel & Mrozowski 2010). In what follows we will provide a plausible explanation for this omission and, more importantly, an outline of why and how the lacuna can be filled. Our argument centres mainly around classical pragmatism, in particular the work of G.H. Mead (1863-1931).