1st September 2011, 07:55 PM
Evenin all.
I think we can (probably for the first time ever!) agree on one thing: the current level of professional standards in archaeology as an industry is at best variable and at worst, piss poor. There is in my view, little point in apportioning blame simply because we are all responsible. Interpret that as you will. We still operate in an environment where professional standards are optional and where cultural heritage survives with its head barely above water in a planning guidance framework. Pseudo-legislation that is held up as adequate by many is simply ambiguous and open to often wild interpretation. In my view, tangible change will only ever come about when cultural heritage is enshrined in British Statute Law in clear and unambiguous terms. Professionals involved in the industry can then be held to account. Existing systems of checks and balances can work well but have a habit of being woefully stretched. If its professional standards for a modern profession that you guys are arguing for then first and foremost.....accept that professionalism starts with every single one of us. Follow that up with a concerted effort to lobby those in a position to table Bills before Parliament and we are on our way. Simples. The public and their MPs will find it difficult to stand behind us if we spend most of our free time demonising each other. There`s plenty of pent-up drive on here but even after a decade of open discussion (thanks to Mister Hosty!) on here, we are all still going around in pointless circles. There`s much to change............stop bitchin and get busy!
I think we can (probably for the first time ever!) agree on one thing: the current level of professional standards in archaeology as an industry is at best variable and at worst, piss poor. There is in my view, little point in apportioning blame simply because we are all responsible. Interpret that as you will. We still operate in an environment where professional standards are optional and where cultural heritage survives with its head barely above water in a planning guidance framework. Pseudo-legislation that is held up as adequate by many is simply ambiguous and open to often wild interpretation. In my view, tangible change will only ever come about when cultural heritage is enshrined in British Statute Law in clear and unambiguous terms. Professionals involved in the industry can then be held to account. Existing systems of checks and balances can work well but have a habit of being woefully stretched. If its professional standards for a modern profession that you guys are arguing for then first and foremost.....accept that professionalism starts with every single one of us. Follow that up with a concerted effort to lobby those in a position to table Bills before Parliament and we are on our way. Simples. The public and their MPs will find it difficult to stand behind us if we spend most of our free time demonising each other. There`s plenty of pent-up drive on here but even after a decade of open discussion (thanks to Mister Hosty!) on here, we are all still going around in pointless circles. There`s much to change............stop bitchin and get busy!