Indiana Jones: Myth, Reality And 21st Century Archaeology

Archaeological organizations not only provide a sense of community and broad exchange forums for professional archaeologists, but they also play major role in promoting the message of archaeology to the lay community. The World Archaeological Congress (WAC) is perhaps the most inclusive and extensive organization of its kind in the world. A critical component that surfaces in the WAC’s various venues is the range of geo-political themes that emerge as professionals from a variety of archaeological backgrounds exchange their ideas on the profession’s aspirations and missions. This week we bring in Drs. Claire Smith and Anne Pyburn, president and vice-president elect of WAC respectively. They will explore the potential of the organization to promote international co-operation at a time when the goals and aims of traditional archaeology have been questioned and the need for more co-operation is becoming paramount to secure the field’s survival well into the future.