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Dimensional Analysis of Behavior and Site Structure: Learning from an Eskimo Hunting Stand

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  20 January 2017

Lewis R. Binford
Lewis R. Binford*
Affiliation:
Department of Anthropology, University of New MexicoAlbuquerque, NM 87131
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Abstract

Detailed behavioral observations permitted the dimensional analysis of formation processes operative on the Mask site, a Nunamiut Eskimo hunting stand. Activity structure, technological organization, disposal mode, and spatial organization were all seen as behavioral dimensions that could each vary, altering the patterns of assemblage content and spatial disposition at an archaeological site. These ethnoarchaeological experiences were then contrasted with those recently reported by John Yellen (1977), and a critical evaluation of his “conclusions” was conducted from the perspective of the Eskimo experience. It was pointed out that basic differences in philosophy and approach to research largely conditioned the contrasting character of the conclusions drawn from the different experiences.

Type
Research Article
Information
American Antiquity , Volume 43 , Issue 3 , July 1978 , pp. 330 - 361
Copyright
Copyright © The Society for American Archaeology 1978

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References

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