This thesis explores the relationships between local people, archaeologists and Amara West, locally known as Abkanisa, located in Sudanese Nubia, northern Sudan. The analysis of the relationship... Show moreThis thesis explores the relationships between local people, archaeologists and Amara West, locally known as Abkanisa, located in Sudanese Nubia, northern Sudan. The analysis of the relationship aimed to understand the local values of the place and the power relations between local people and archaeologists in the post-colonial context. It argues how this relationship could be improved by dialogue that promotes increased human interactions, understanding different perspectives and exchanging knowledge and memories. This study contributes to decolonising archaeological and heritage practices by presenting a model for collaboration in archaeology. Show less
Over the last few decades, western archaeology increasingly abandoned its __ivory tower__ in order to investigate, negotiate and develop its position and role in global society. The way in which we... Show moreOver the last few decades, western archaeology increasingly abandoned its __ivory tower__ in order to investigate, negotiate and develop its position and role in global society. The way in which we deal with other peoples views in the interpretation of archaeological materials, the way in which we integrate our narratives and practices with other heritage demands, and the way in which we deal with power differences in both these processes; all are challenging issues when undertaking archaeological research projects abroad. Sjoerd van der Linde brings forward an ethnographic and discursive analysis of two archaeological projects by the Faculty of Archaeology of Leiden University - notably the Deir Alla Joint Archaeological Project in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan and the Santa Barbara Project in Cura_ao. Focusing on the ways and extents to which these projects are influenced by different policy and funding programs, and investigating the operational systems, social relationships and dominating values and discourses that determine project outcomes, he explores how archaeological research projects abroad work in their social context. Van der Linde offers a critical reflection upon the role and responsibility of archaeologists in relation to the values and demands of other actors in society. Show less
