Gender in Archaeology: Analyzing Power and Prestige

Rating:
Summary: Good introduction to gender issues in archaeology
Review: As a beginning (male) college archaeology student, I have not had much exposure to the issue of gender in archaeology yet. When I saw this book in the library, I figured I'd give it a shot over Christmas break. It was not a waste of time. This is a thoughtful and well-written book which points out many obvious (and some not-so-obvious) instances of androcentrism in both the study and practice of archaeology. There are a few places where it seemed that Nelson was about to fall into the trap of gynocentrism which she rightly denounces as being just as bad as androcentrism. However, she usually catches herself in time. I am very glad I decided to read this book, because it has given me a new perspective from which to evaluate the material I will read in the future.

Rating:
Summary: Good introduction to gender issues in archaeology
Review: As a beginning (male) college archaeology student, I have not had much exposure to the issue of gender in archaeology yet. When I saw this book in the library, I figured I'd give it a shot over Christmas break. It was not a waste of time. This is a thoughtful and well-written book which points out many obvious (and some not-so-obvious) instances of androcentrism in both the study and practice of archaeology. There are a few places where it seemed that Nelson was about to fall into the trap of gynocentrism which she rightly denounces as being just as bad as androcentrism. However, she usually catches herself in time. I am very glad I decided to read this book, because it has given me a new perspective from which to evaluate the material I will read in the future.