Public Dialogues in Archaeology : New Methodologies from Turkey

Offering a study of archaeological heritage in Turkey, this book shows the alternative ways that the public relates to the past and its remains. Within the theoretical framework of public archaeology, Isilay Gürsu brings together the results of decade-long projects – based on quantitative and qualitative research – to show how communities interact with the archaeological past. Generally speaking, the public is viewed as an obstacle to be overcome by the experts and authorities, but Gürsu shows how local communities can be potential allies in the safeguarding of heritage assets. Furthermore, Public Dialogues in Archaeology challenges the notion that intellectual knowledge is a prerequisite for the appreciation of archaeological history, and presents an understanding of the past that works at a somatic, sensory and emotional level. The result is a study that gives voice to different social groups that have often been silent, silenced or misunderstood in official reports and authorised publications. In this novel approach, Gürsu concentrates on the ‘public’ within public archaeology.