An Archaeology of Innovation: Approaching social and technological change in human society

    Research output: Book/ReportBookpeer-review

    Abstract

    An archaeology of innovation is the first monograph-length investigation of innovation and the innovation process from an archaeological perspective. It interrogates the idea of innovation that permeates our popular media and our political and scientific discourse, setting this against the long-term perspective that only archaeology can offer. Case studies span the entire breadth of human history, from our earliest hominin ancestors to the contemporary world. The book argues that the present narrow focus on pushing the adoption of technical innovations ignores the complex interplay of social, technological and environmental systems that underlies truly innovative societies; the inherent connections between new technologies, technologists and social structure that give them meaning and make them valuable; and the significance and value of conservative social practices that lead to the frequent rejection of innovations.
    Original languageEnglish
    Place of PublicationManchester, UK
    PublisherManchester University Press
    Number of pages256
    Volume1
    Edition1st
    ISBN (Print)978-1-5261-3264-2
    Publication statusPublished - 2021

    Publication series

    NameSocial Archaeology and Material Worlds

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