Abstract
Professor Trigger's contribution to Schiffer's volune is a well-reasoned and significant consideration of the influence of Marxist thought on the work of number of contemporary archaeologists. He is more critical of recent developments within Marxist archaeology than is McGuire; the article stands as a challenge to those who utilize Marxist ideas to reconsider the direction they have lately taken. <br /><br />In this article Trigger demonstrates his thorough knowledge of both Marxist theory and the social history of archaeology (here I am following Trigger's convention by capitalizing "Marxist"). Although his consideration of the contributions of Marxists to Western archaeology is generally sympathetic. he is unafraid to criticize where he feels it is appropriate. Like McGuire, Trigger offers critical insight on the relationship between Marxist philosophy and archaeology; unlike McGuire, Trigger explicitly limits his discussion to Western Europe and North America.
Highlights
Professor Trigger's contribution to Schiffer's volwne is a well-reasoned and significant consideration of the influence of Marxist thought on the work of number of contemporary archaeologists. He is more critical of recent developments within Marxist archaeol ogy than is McGuire; the article stands as a challenge to those who utilize Marxist ideas to reconsider the direction they have lately taken
Trigger distinguishes classical Marxism from the more contemporary manifestations of Marxist thought which he tenns "neo Marxism." He suggests that neo-Marxist archaeology developed in the late 1970's as a group of young archaeologists in Britain and the United States adopted explicitly Marxist approaches to archaeology
According to Trigger, this generation of neo-Marxist archaeologists derived their positions not from classical Marxism itself, but rather from French anthropological Marxism and Frankfort school critical theory. This indirect adoption of Marxist thought combined with a great variability in commitment to Marxism, both political and intellectual, has created a loose fellowship of archaeologists, including many sCH:alled postprocesisual sts, who use Marxist ideas in various measure and with various success
Summary
Professor Trigger's contribution to Schiffer's volwne is a well-reasoned and significant consideration of the influence of Marxist thought on the work of number of contemporary archaeologists. In this article Trigger demonstrdtes his thorough knowledge of both Marxist theory and the social history of archaeology Am following Trigger's convention by capitalizing "Marxist").
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