Cognitive Archaeology

The study of cognitive archaeology began to emerge in the 1970s, and is now becoming a discipline in its own right. Cognitive archaeology aims to understand the mental abilities of past human ancestors through rigorous application of scientific techniques in archaeology, psyschology, neuroscience, anthropology, and primatology. One of the main goals of cognitive archaeology is to develop new ways to interpret prehistoric cognition from the archaeological record. We are now in an exciting phase of cognitive archaeology as many disciplines come together to create new synergies. In the process of developing this new cross-disciplinary field, it is important to establish legitimate and replicable research methodologies. Collaborations between disciplines can help to validate methods and results.This symposium aims to bring together established and emerging cognitive archaeologists to showcase their latest research and theories, consider the range of potential for the discipline, and clarify misconceptions. At the end, participants will discuss at length to create a manifesto of best practice for cognitive archaeology.