Bioarchaeology : digging for the truth

Abstract

Using skeletal and material remains respectively, archaeologists and physical anthropologists attempt to reconstruct the lives of past peoples. The combination of these two types of evidence within one discipline is referred to as bioarcheology. Bioarcheology includes studies in palaeodemography and palaeopathology, as well as exploring theories of mortuary behavior, lifestyle and activity, violence and interpersonal activity, and technology. This thesis contains a brief history of bioarcheology, followed by how it can be used worldwide to explore what we can discover about past populations and their culture by studying their skeletal and archaeological remains, specifically through palaeopathology. Topics covered include acquired skeletal pathologies, congenital diseases, infectious diseases, dental diseases, metabolic and endocrine diseases, and nutrition. The thesis also includes analysis of case studies conducted using a bioarcheological approach and specifically addresses why it is important for archaeologists and physical anthropologists to work together and unite bioarcheology. The ultimate objective of this thesis is to demonstrate that bioarcheology can assist in filling a void between physical anthropology and archaeology.

Notes

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Thesis Completion

2008

Semester

Spring

Advisor

Dupras, Tosha L.

Degree

Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)

College

College of Sciences

Degree Program

Anthropology

Subjects

Dissertations, Academic -- Sciences;Sciences -- Dissertations, Academic

Format

Print

Identifier

DP0022289

Language

English

Access Status

Open Access

Length of Campus-only Access

None

Document Type

Honors in the Major Thesis

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