Abstract
In this article the authors suggest that chaos theory can provide us with
a new perspective on archaeology. Newtonian thinking is predominant
in archaeology, as well as in the humanities in general. This results in
the hegemony of analytic methods and a linear way of thinking on cause
and effect. However, chaos theory has shown that behind many phen-
omena that may seem random lies order. Since these complex dynamic
systems cannot be approached by linear methods we must tum to chaos
theory and non-linear science. Chaos theory has major consequences
for our view of determinism and predictability.
a new perspective on archaeology. Newtonian thinking is predominant
in archaeology, as well as in the humanities in general. This results in
the hegemony of analytic methods and a linear way of thinking on cause
and effect. However, chaos theory has shown that behind many phen-
omena that may seem random lies order. Since these complex dynamic
systems cannot be approached by linear methods we must tum to chaos
theory and non-linear science. Chaos theory has major consequences
for our view of determinism and predictability.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 49-64 |
| Number of pages | 16 |
| Journal | Current Swedish Archaeology |
| Volume | 5 |
| Publication status | Published - 1997 |
Subject classification (UKÄ)
- Classical Archaeology and Ancient History