Scientific Dating Methods in Archaeology and Palaeoanthropology

The aim of this book is put together a detailed description of the scientific methods used for dating archeological and palaoanthropological objects and sites, complemented by examples of their application to longstanding and topical questions.

The authors present a very even quality of coverage of the different methods focused on archaeological and palaeonanthropological methods, well illustrated intended to help the audience

As soon a new and exciting archaeological...
More Description

The aim of this book is put together a detailed description of the scientific methods used for dating archeological and palaoanthropological objects and sites, complemented by examples of their application to longstanding and topical questions.

The authors present a very even quality of coverage of the different methods focused on archaeological and palaeonanthropological methods, well illustrated intended to help the audience

As soon a new and exciting archaeological or palaeoanthropological discovery is announced, one of the first questions asked by scientists and the general public is: When did it occur? When did the Neanderthals died out? How old is the Hobbit? When did humans first use fire, and when did our ancestors being to use stone tools. How far back in time can we trace our human roots, and when did people turn their hand to rock painting and other artistic pursuits? To answer these and other questions about the prehistory of humanity, scientists use various methods of dating to pinpoint the timing of critical archaeological events and objects. Despite several dating 'revolutions' in the archaeological sciences, the fundamentals of dating techniques remain shrouded in mystery for may archaeologists and palaeoantrhopologists. This book lifts the veil on the science of timekeeping in archaeology and palaeanthropology, using topical examples from a variety of archaeological settings to illustrate the range of possible application of modern dating techniques. By offering a clear account of how different dating methods work and what they can (and cannot) do to help illuminate our shared human past, archaeologists and palaoanthropologists will be armed wit the information needed to scientifically address the question: How old is it?

Features:

provides a comprehensive handbook on dating methods in a coherent presentation

all subjects are covered evenly and in the same style and does not concentrate on one or two methods only

provides a critical evaluation of the methods, and not just cover those examples that typically appear in archaeology reference books

a particular emphasis will be placed on the provision of copious coloured diagrams and photos

use of colour coded text boxes

Benefits:

makes it easy for reader to follow the methods and applications

will reach a broader audience of scientists

a comprehensive scientific background will be provided for each method, but separated from main text so that the reader is not waylaid by technical information

makes the book more reader-friendly to scholars with a limited science background

enables a clear separation of the scientific background and maximizes its visual appeal