Toward a Still and Quiet Conscience: A Study in Reflexive Archaeology

Abstract

Reflexive behaviors and discussions have become commonplace in archaeology. The first phase of their implementation has already completed, and a new phase has begun. To clarify the purpose of this second phase, we need to again consider why we are doing them, how we are going about them, and, most importantly, where are we going with them. Reflexive perspectives on archaeology are shifting from idealist implementation to realist implementation, from social advocacy to problem solving pragmatism. The completion of this second phase will lead to an expanded definition of archaeology. When the second phase is done, in about 15 years, reflexive perspectives on archaeology will cycle out of fashion. All these changes are associated with generational changes ongoing in American society.