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Relational Identities and Other-Than-Human Agency in Archaeology: Rethinking the Past through New Perspectives

Charles Dickens

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Abstract

This article explores the concept of relational identities and other-than-human agency in archaeology, challenging traditional notions of human exceptionalism and offering new insights into the past. It argues that human identities and social relations are not solely defined by their interactions with other humans, but also through their relationships with and dependence on other-than-human entities, such as animals, plants, objects, and the environment. By examining the material culture and social practices of past societies, archaeologists can gain a more comprehensive understanding of human identity and social organization, and the role that non-human actors play in shaping human history.

Relational Identities and Other-than-Human Agency in Archaeology

by Gavin Weightman

4.1 out of 5

Language	:	English
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For centuries, archaeology has been dominated by a narrow focus on human exceptionalism, viewing humans as the primary agents of history and change.

However, in recent decades, scholars have begun to challenge this perspective, arguing that human identities and social relations are not solely defined by their interactions with other humans, but also through their relationships with and dependence on other-than-human entities, such as animals, plants, objects, and the environment.

This new perspective, known as relational archaeology, emphasizes the interconnectedness of all beings and the ways in which human and non-human actors co-create the world around us.

Relational Identities

Relational archaeology starts from the premise that human identities are not fixed or essential, but rather are fluid and constantly negotiated through social interactions.

Our relationships with other people, as well as with non-human entities, shape who we are and how we perceive ourselves.

For example, an individual's identity may be shaped by their relationship with their family, their community, their environment, and the objects they own and use.

This relational understanding of identity challenges traditional notions of individualism and self-sufficiency, and instead emphasizes the ways in which we are all interconnected and interdependent.

Other-Than-Human Agency

Another key concept in relational archaeology is the idea of other-than-human agency.

This refers to the capacity of non-human entities, such as animals, plants, objects, and the environment, to actively shape human history and social relations.

For instance, animals have played a vital role in human societies throughout history, providing food, transportation, companionship, and protection.

Plants have also been essential to human survival, providing sustenance, shelter, and medicine.

Objects, such as tools, weapons, and jewelry, can also have a profound impact on human behavior and social organization.

The environment, too, plays a crucial role in shaping human societies, influencing everything from food production to settlement patterns.

By recognizing the agency of non-human entities, archaeologists can gain a more holistic understanding of the past and the ways in which humans and non-humans have interacted and co-evolved.

Archaeological Evidence

There is a growing body of archaeological evidence that supports the theory of relational identities and other-than-human agency.

For example, studies of hunter-gatherer societies have shown that animals were often treated as social beings, with whom humans formed close relationships and shared resources.

Archaeological evidence has also shown that plants were often cultivated and used for medicinal purposes, and that objects were often imbued with symbolic and ritual significance.

In addition, studies of the environment have shown that human societies have long been adapting to and shaping their surroundings, and that the environment has played a vital role in shaping human history.

This archaeological evidence challenges traditional notions of human exceptionalism and provides a more nuanced and holistic understanding of the past.

Relational archaeology offers a new and exciting perspective on the past, challenging traditional notions of human exceptionalism and emphasizing the interconnectedness of all beings. By exploring the concept of relational identities and other-than-human agency, archaeologists can gain a more comprehensive understanding of human history and the ways in which humans and non-humans have co-created the world around us. This new perspective has the potential to revolutionize our understanding of the past and to inspire new ways of thinking about the future.

Relational Identities and Other-than-Human Agency in Archaeology

by Gavin Weightman

4.1 out of 5