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"Exploring the Diversity of Human Culture: Insights from Anthropology"
Band
In the realm of political anthropology, a band represents the simplest form of human socio-political organization. It typically involves a small, kin-based group of people that subsist through foraging.
Anthropological Society of London
The Anthropological Society of London, established in 1863, is an organization that plays a significant role in the historical development of anthropology as a discipline. It serves as an intellectual forum for scholars, researchers, and students interested in human societies and cultures.
Archaeological Deposit Model
The Archaeological Deposit Model (ADM) provides a vital tool for interpreting buried archaeological remains. Derived from geological stratigraphy, it is employed to understand the chronological sequence of site formation.
Dark Earth
Dark Earth, also known as terra preta or Amazonian black earth, is a type of soil found in the Amazon Basin, widely revered for its incredible fertility and carbon storage capabilities. This human-made soil is a fascinating testament to the innovative agriculture of ancient Amazonian civilizations, revealing critical lessons for contemporary agricultural and climate-change mitigation strategies.
Seriation in Archaeology
Seriation is a relative dating technique used by archaeologists. The method relies on changes in the popularity of different styles or types of artifacts over time. It allows archaeologists to sequence or arrange a collection of objects in the order they were made.
Projectile Point in Archaeology
Projectile points, also known as arrowheads or spearheads, have been used throughout history for hunting and warfare. Their unique shapes and sizes offer clues to archaeologists about past civilizations, technological advancements, and migration patterns.
Post excavation Analysis
Post excavation analysis, also known as post-fieldwork analysis or lab analysis, refers to the evaluation, interpretation, and recording of archaeological materials and data once the fieldwork has ended. It transforms the raw data collected during excavation into a meaningful narrative of the past.
Lithic Analysis
Lithic analysis refers to the detailed study of stone tools and other chipped stone artifacts using scientific techniques. It allows archaeologists to understand human behaviors and adaptations in prehistoric times.
Law of Superposition
The law of superposition is a key axiom in geology and archaeology that states that in undisturbed layers of rocks or soils, the youngest layer is on top, and the oldest is on the bottom. In other words, each layer is presumed to be
Ground Penetrating Radar
Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) is a sophisticated and valuable geophysical tool that deploys radar pulses to generate an image of the subsurface. It uses electromagnetic radiation in the microwave band of the radio spectrum and detects reflected signals from structures or inconsistencies beneath the ground.
Magico-Religious Functionaries
Magico-religious functionaries are a vital component of traditional societies, serving as intermediaries between the physical and spiritual realms. These individuals often hold a unique position, offering spiritual guidance, healing, and ritualistic services.
Redistribution
Redistribution, one of the main forms of economic exchange, refers to the gathering of goods or wealth by a central authority which is then re-distributed within the society. In comparison with other forms of economic exchanges such as reciprocity and market exchange, it plays a unique role in the structure and function of pre-capitalist economies.