Theory in Africa, Africa in Theory Locating Meaning in Archaeology [Paperback]

Theory in Africa, Africa in Theoryexplores the place of Africa in archaeological theory, and the place of theory in African archaeology. The centrality of Africa to global archaeological thinking is highlighted, with a particular focus on materiality and agency in contemporary interpretation. As a means to explore the nature of theory itself, the volume also addresses differences between how African models are used in western theoretical discourse and the use of that theory within Africa. Providing a key contribution to theoretical discourse through a focus on the context of theory-building, this volume explores how African modes of thought have shaped our approaches to a meaningful past outside of Africa.

A timely intervention into archaeological thought, Theory in Africa, Africa in Theorydeconstructs the conventional ways we approach the past, positioning the continent within a global theoretical discourse and blending Western and African scholarship. This volume will be a valuable resource for those interested in the archaeology of Africa, as well as providing fresh perspectives to those interested in archaeological theory more generally.

I. Disciplinary engagements with Africa
1  Theory in Africa: Africa in theory
 Stephanie Wynne-Jones  and Jeffrey Fleisher
2  African models in global histories
 Scott MacEachern
3  The Problem of equifinality in archaeology
 Felix Chami
4 The place of Africa in theory
 Henrietta Moore
II. Theory in Africa
5  Problems with practice: Dynamic interpretation in African archaeology
 Stephanie Wynne-Jones
6 Situating the Swahili house
 Jeffrey Fleisher
7  Pioneers of archaeological thought and practice in postcolonial Nigeria
 Akin OgundilóÍ