#39 Roots of Reality Experiences: Pseudoarcheology with Dr. David S. Anderson

Historian Ben Baumann talks with archaeologist Dr. David S. Anderson about his work combatting the popularity of various pseudoarchaeological beliefs, why such beliefs don't meet archaeological standards, and how the public can learn more about the difference between archaeology and pseudoarchaeology.

(David S. Anderson received his Ph.D. in Anthropology from Tulane University in 2010 with a focus on the archaeology of the ancient Maya. His fieldwork has focused on studying the development of Maya sociopolitical complexity and cultural institutions during the Preclassic period. This work has involved investigating the origins and growth of political power in a pre-state environment, as well as a critical examination of the role played by the Maya ballgame in development of community identity.

Over the past five years, Anderson has becoming increasingly involved in the examining how the academic community should engage with pseudoarchaeological claims such as the existence of Atlantis or ancient alien contact. His work has sought to move past simply debunking such claims and instead has turned to looking for the roots that allow these ideas to thrive. He is currently working a manuscript for the book Weirding Archaeology, which examines the influences that esoteric spiritual movements, secret fraternal orders, and popular culture have had on the public perception of archaeological research.)

For more on Dr. David S. Anderson visit the following links:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/DSAArchaeology

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DSAArchaeology/

Books: https://www.amazon.com/David-S.-Anderson/e/B06XYBV5VC%3Fref=dbs_a_mng_rwt_scns_share

(The memories, comments, and viewpoints shared by guests in the interviews do not represent the viewpoints of, or speak for Roots of Reality)