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Professionalism in Historical Archaeology

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Abstract

As historical archaeology expands across the globe, issues over the nature of professionalism are sure to arise with greater frequency. In this essay, I explore the subject of professionalism in historical archaeology and offer a few personal comments and observations on this important subject. For me, personal integrity can play a huge role in furthering the cause of archaeology among an often-uninterested public.

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Orser, C.E. Professionalism in Historical Archaeology. International Journal of Historical Archaeology 1, 243–255 (1997). https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1027353216382

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