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The current state of archaeology, with its low wages and subsequent understaffing, will, with the coming HS2 project, lead to a complete collapse of the industry as the construction companies justifiably ignore the requirements of heritage in the planning process, due to an inability by the industry to provide an adequate level of service. Discuss.
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It would of course be a disaster if the profession were to collapse as a result of the failure of engagement between archaeology and the planning system. As to whether the current 'most favoured model' of archaeological enterprise would be greatly missed is another matter. Does that answer the question?
With peace and consolation hath dismist, And calm of mind all passion spent...
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If you can add in somewhere 'all historic environment staff having been removed', which is currently happening it at least some areas, and you are potentially about right. Unfortunately. Presumably the masses of well-trained volunteers would step into the breech and we would truly be back in the 1970s/1980s. Some archaeologists will be over joyed at this. mainly the ones who have been in the same secure role since that time.
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we've never been afraid of boom and bust. there is no shortage of labour but there is a shortage of careers.
If they can get you asking the wrong questions, they don't have to worry about answers
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Gander Wrote:The current state of archaeology, with its low wages and subsequent understaffing, will, with the coming HS2 project, lead to a complete collapse of the industry as the construction companies justifiably ignore the requirements of heritage in the planning process, due to an inability by the industry to provide an adequate level of service. Discuss.
(In my opinion)
Just like the invention of the car didn't cause the human race to lose the use of their legs........The HS2 won't lead to the collapse of the archaeological industry.
Though, humans with cars are less fit as a whole due to a lack of exercise. Not all are.........Adapt and overcome
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P Prentice Wrote:we've never been afraid of boom and bust. there is no shortage of labour but there is a shortage of careers.
Indeed. (grin....I love the word indeed. Makes you sound more intelligent without actually saying anything).........I'd love to regurgitate my twisty corridor with doors analogy, but running out of time.
Work to do.
Archaeology does lack a rigidly defined career ladder. But is this necessarily a bad thing? Can't people forge their own career? To quote Alan Sugar......
"I hear your enthusiasm, you know? Great enthusiasm. A fly's got enthusiasm but it doesn't stop headbutting the window!"
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Gander Wrote:The current state of archaeology, with its low wages and subsequent understaffing, will, with the coming HS2 project, lead to a complete collapse of the industry as the construction companies justifiably ignore the requirements of heritage in the planning process, due to an inability by the industry to provide an adequate level of service. Discuss.
Another point of view is that it will strengthen the industry but weaken the standards of archaeology.
There is also the possibility that it could see the demise of some, possibly many smaller to medium sized companies and the rapid growth of others, depending on how well they can adjust to the demands.
I reserve the right to change my mind. It's called learning.
Hyperbole or a realistic view of the future?
