Dealing with the Unique: When classification fails, a case study

The Research Seminar Series in Archaeology and Environmental archaeology invites you to a seminar with David Loeffler, "Dealing with the Unique: When classification fails, a case study". Article by Sam Büch, David Loeffler & Emma Svensson. 

Abstract

"You shouldn’t believe anything until the evidence actually supports it."
Matt Dillahunty

Classification is the systematic study, analysis and grouping of entities (both things and concepts) based on perceived types or categories. It is a powerful tool employed by all of the sciences; formal, natural and social. Classification is never final. It is always work in progress, open to constant revision or replacement. This is eloquently expressed by Khazanov who also reminds us:

"[that]…definitions, categories, typologies and classifications should never become the end of a study, or a purely semantic exercise. They are only its analytical tool, reflecting somewhat the methodological approaches undertaken. Their value depends not so much on their precision, which is almost always disputable, but on how adequately they serve the specific goals of the investigation." Anatoly M. Khazanov 1994 cited from Marklund 2008:348.

Sooner or later everyone bumps into something unique that challenges their frames of reference, resulting in a situation that compels adjustments or a critical reassessment of the classification scheme and, in extension, nurtures new insights concerning the archaeological record and our understanding of the past. This case study addresses said scenario in an archaeological context exemplified by a recently discovered edifice located at the foot of Rösberget (Cairn Mountain) in the Municipality of Umeå, County of Västerbotten, in northern Sweden. This unique feature was first recognized by Peter Holmblad who shared this find with the authors and who also pointed out the seemingly stylistic attributes it appears to share with historical Sami motifs. This notion is explored here.

About the speaker

David Loeffler is a retired Associate Professor of Archaeology at Umeå University. He holds a PhD in Archaeology, and his academic career has been largely devoted to archaeological fieldwork in Norrland and teaching at Umeå University.

About the seminar series

The Research Seminar Series in Archaeology and Environmental Archaeology presents and discusses current research in archaeology and environmental archaeology.
See more upcoming seminars in the series