Customer Reviews

Archaeological Survey (Manuals in Archaeological Method, Theory and Technique)

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`Although surveys have been important to archaeological research for decades, most authors address the subject in a cursory manner, often as a mere prelude to excavation. Banning (Univ. of Toronto) fills this gap with a comprehensive manual devoted exclusively to archaeological surveys. He begins with a discussion of the history of archaeological surveys and their unique contributions to archaeological research- Subsequent chapters address the goals of surveys; discuss how surveys are used to discover archaeological materials; analyze the importance of sampling; illustrate how surveys help archaeologists discover spatial structure; summarize the role of surveys in cultural resource management; and suggest several approaches to the evaluation of archaeological surveys. A thorough, up-to-date bibliography and a comprehensive index conclude the volume. Although at times the discussion can be difficult reading, the volume is generally well written and capably edited. A few more detailed examples would have helped to flesh out certain concepts, but that is a minor issue. This is the only currently available comprehensive treatment of archaeological surveys. Highly recommended.' W. Kotter, Weber State University in Choice, July 2003

"Although surveys have been important to archaeological research for decades. most authors address the subject in a cursory manner, often as a mere prelude to excavation. Banning (Univ. of Toronto) fills this gap with a comprehensive manual devoted exclusively to archaeological surveys. This is the only currently available comprehensive treatment of archaeological surveys..... Highly recommended."

W. Kotter, Weber State University