Social Engagement in Archaeology. Planning the Social Impact of an Archaeological Project. A Proposal by María Antonieta Jiménez Izarraraz for Archaeological Research

Abstract

The book entitled Social Engagement in Archeology presents a proposal to establish a connection with the society that hosts an archaeological research project. This provides a dynamic role to sodoiciety beyond considering it a mere spectator; it conceives it as a component of the research process that can result in a desirable ally in the conservation of a site and its materials. This work also proposes evaluation mechanisms that guide the strengthening of the relationship with society, with an important emphasis on social participation. The general overview is the proposal to make archaeological research a discipline that is closer to the non-specialist public, and to include it as a social actor whose engagement with archaeological heritage is considered vital. To this end, a case study is presented at El Palacio de Ocomo archaeological site in Oconahua, Jalisco, Mexico.