Ian Hodder (archaeologist)

Ian Hodder is a renowned archaeologist best known for pioneering post-processual archaeology, emphasizing the importance of interpreting cultural meaning, symbolism, and human agency in understanding past societies. His work often involves studying ancient sites through careful excavation and analysis, such as at Çatalhöyük in Turkey. Hodder advocates for viewing archaeology as a interpretive and humanistic discipline that considers the perspectives and experiences of past peoples, moving beyond just material remains to understand their social, spiritual, and cultural worlds. His approach has significantly shaped modern archaeological theory and practice.