Bioarchaeology: An Integrated Approach to Working with Human Remains (Manuals in Archaeological Method, Theory and Technique)

Bioarchaeology is the analysis of human remains within an interpretative framework that includes contextual information. This comprehensive and much-needed manual provides both a starting point and a reference for archaeologists, bioarchaeologists and others working in this integrative field. The authors cover a range of bioarchaeological methods and theory including: Ethical issues involved in dealing with human remains Theoretical approaches in bioarchaeology Techniques in taphonomy and bone analysis Lab and forensic techniques for skeletal analysis Best practices for excavation techniques Special applications in bioarchaeology With case studies from bioarchaeological research, the authors integrate theoretical and methodological discussion with a wide range of field studies from different geographic areas, time periods, and data types, to demonstrate the full scope of this important field of study. Front Matter....Pages i-xvii The Practice of Bioarchaeology....Pages 1-21 An Ethos for Bioarchaeologists....Pages 23-55 Formulating Research Projects Involving Human Remains....Pages 57-92 Best Practices: Excavation Guidelines and Taphonomic Considerations....Pages 93-116 The Mortuary Component and Human Remains....Pages 117-150 Bioarchaeology of Individuals: Identity, Social Theory, and Skeletal Analysis....Pages 151-172 Bioarchaeology of Populations: Understanding Adaptation and Resilience....Pages 173-197 Special Applications in Bioarchaeology: Taking a Closer Look....Pages 199-211 Body as Material Culture....Pages 213-238 Relevance, Education, and the Future....Pages 239-254 Back Matter....Pages 255-262 Bioarchaeology is the analysis of human remains within an interpretative framework that includes contextual information. This comprehensive and much-needed manual provides both a starting point and a reference for archaeologists, bioarchaeologists and others working in this integrative field. With case studies from bioarchaeological research, the authors integrate theoretical and methodological discussion with a wide range of field studies from different geographic areas, time periods, and data types, to demonstrate the full scope of this important field of study. -- Publisher. This book offers a manual and reference guide on such issues as excavation techniques, ethical issues in handling of human remains including NAGPRA compliance, lab and forensic techniques, field and taphonomic clues and more. Includes a range of field studies.