15th January 2008, 11:06 PM
Quote:quote:Originally posted by tom wilsonSo if its not worth it then why all the talk about "record this and record that"? You do owe the heritage record the "full record" whether it be practical or not.
You also seem optimistic in your understanding of what we as professional archaeologists can achieve. OK, so MDs might be available for free, but that doesn't mean the organisation comes for free. Is it worth it? Quite possibly not, considering all the other things one might achieve with that time. Should I spend what spare time I can scrape up organising volunteers to try and locate unstratified finds, or reading more of the bottomless pile of journals relating to the site, or talking to experts in obscure aspects of the data? Yes, I should do all of these things, but I like to go home to my bed sometimes.
You earn your living as an archaeologist and I agree you should be paid and have free time like everyone else to spend with your family. I spend £1000's of pounds on my hobby... be it machines and Internet sites to promote responsible recording and try and encourage better relationships with heritage professionals. I would like to not sit on archaeological forums arguing the existence of what I do and ask for recognition for my hobbies achievements in contributing to the heritage record.
The snobbishness within archaeological circles does exist... even though you might not like the term and it does more damage to the heritage record than you know by alienating so many people.
I'm not sorry I ruffle a few feathers with my plane speak but it is said with all honesty. Finsih the rest of my quote and not just take out the bits that fit your argument.
Website for responsible Metal Detecting
http://www.ukdfd.co.uk
Recording Our Heritage For Future Generations.