Chapter 6. Challenges of Ethnoarchaeology in South America

ABSTRACT

Ethnoarchaeology is in a constant state of reflection, not only about its ontological and epistemological foundations but also about the usefulness of results and the ethical dimension of its practice. South American ethnoarchaeology is in the midst of a profound debate that presents new challenges. The tension lies between an ethical and political commitment to traditional communities, awareness of the postcolonial critique, and the ability to obtain analogical sources and operational models to strengthen archaeological inferences. This chapter presents a timely assessment of the state of ethnoarchaeology in South America and its relevance to the global state of practice. The aim is to provide historical context to those not familiar with South American ethnoarchaeology and elucidate long‐standing and new challenges for traditional communities and scholars. The contributions of South American ethnoarchaeology to a more rigorous and inclusive future of ethnoarchaeology are featured.