Description
Book SynopsisExplains how archaeologists can use Karl Marx and Frederick Engels' mode of production concept to study long-term patterns in human society. Presenting a range of different perspectives from researchers working in a wide variety of societies and time periods, this volume clearly demonstrates why historical materialism matters to the field of archaeology.
Trade ReviewFor more than a century, scholars have critiqued, misinterpreted, and bickered about Marx’s concept of mode of production.
Modes of Production and Archaeology cuts through the dense and thorny intellectual thicket that grew up from these debates. The book presents an easily understood discussion of Marx’s concepts and demonstrates how archaeologists can analyze modes of production to explain long term patterns in cultural change.”—Randall McGuire, author of
Archaeology as Political Action “Shows clearly how historical materialist ideas and concepts are productive in developing the theory and practice of archaeology.”—Robert Chapman, author of
Archaeologies of Complexity “Covers a huge range of ground and brings together ideas and analyses in a way that has not really been done yet in archaeology.”—Colin Grier, Washington State University
