Theories of Archaeology

Theories of archaeology are ideas that explain how we interpret past human activities through material remains. They guide archaeologists in understanding what artifacts and sites tell us about ancient societies, cultures, and behaviors. For example, some theories focus on studying societies' social structures, others explore economic or religious aspects. These frameworks help archaeologists develop hypotheses, analyze findings, and build narratives about the past. Think of them as different lenses—sociological, economic, or cultural—that shape how we understand the stories behind ancient objects and sites.