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Who are the archaeologists who study European barbarians? They are usually scholars, generally very bright and hardworking people, who work in universities and museums as well as in government and private agencies that preserve the remains of ancient societies. Professional archaeologists seek knowledge, not wealth. Other archaeologists are amateurs for whom the discovery of archaeological sites is a hobby rather than a job. In Europe amateur archaeologists often work side by side with professionals, alerting them to their finds and helping in excavations. An important role is played by amateur archaeologists who have a particular skill, such as scuba diving. For example, many prehistoric sites that were once on dry land are now under water in places like Denmark, where sea levels have risen over the past five thousand years. Divers with an interest in archaeology have discovered many remarkable sites just off the coast. In studying archaeology, it is important to separate the factual evidence and sensible interpretations from the fantasies of those who see archaeology as a mirror for their spiritual and political beliefs. Stonehenge is of interest not only to serious archaeologists for what it can tell them about Bronze Age society but also to impressionable and gullible people who believe that it has mystical power. The corpse of a prehistoric traveler found in the Alps in 1991 has provided an immense amount of information about life five thousand years ago, but it also has been the source of all sorts of foolish speculation. Today, some might say that all interpretations of the archaeological record are equally valid. Serious archaeologists, however, place a greater value on evidence and documentation over flights of fancy and conjecture. New evidence is always coming to light that can overturn current ideas about the past, but such evidence must be presented clearly and evaluated rigorously before it can be accepted. Only then can valid interpretations be made. Archaeologists often disagree with one another about how the archaeological record should be interpreted, but they all base their views on evidence. The work of these archaeologists has transformed our knowledge of the European past dramatically over the past two centuries and will continue to change it even more in the decades to come. New discoveries are steadily filling gaps in what we know and altering our views of prehistoric life.
My name is Sulamita Berrezi, I am an author who writes with the simple aim of sharing his ideas.My passion is anni 80 and testi canzoni anni 80.
Professional archaeologists seek knowledge, not wealth. Other archaeologists are amateurs for whom the discovery of archaeological sites is a hobby rather than a job.
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