Archaeology and interdisciplinary studies

Redman and Diamond both appear to view archaeological human groups as isolated cultures that can be studied in a bubble, without an analysis of the exchanges between groups. Both used Mesoamerican social collapse to make the point that dense populations, intensive agriculture, and high demands of labor (in monumental architecture construction, Redman:153-155) led to eventual decreases in food and political instability. Diamond further elaborated that this group, and other societies, "chose to fail". Do you agree with some of the other author's critiques that Diamond (and maybe also Redman??) are still ignoring societal complexities? What other factors may contribute to societal collapse?

Most of the authors critiquing Diamond mention that despite its flaws his book was a brave attempt at interdisciplinary studies as well as serving to bring anthropological issues into the mainstream media. Is this good for anthropology? Should we be more concerned with the spread of misinformation or promoting the field of anthropology in this (possibly misguided) effort?

Indigenous knowledge and sustainability

Shiva, Fricker, and Stone mention the use of local (indigenous) environmental knowledge (LEK) as an important form of knowledge for sustainability. Shiva wishes to defend and utilize LEK to it's fullest extent, especially of women, while Stone recognizes some limitations (such as normal human bias and the dynamic nature of knowledge). What should be the place of LEK in ecological research? How can LEK be best incorporated or utilized for sustainability?

Beckerman indicates that concern for the environment increases as affluence increases, however, Fricker (192) indicates the opposite. What factors can account for this discrepency? Are either "true" and how do we know given all the limitations of measuring environmental concern and sustainability?

ANT732 Discussion Blog

Hi!
I've created a spot for us to interact before we meet on Monday morning. I was thinking we could begin formulating our thoughts, ideas, notes, and discussion questions here?