Sarah Kurnick: "Aliens built the pyramids" and other absurdities of pseudo-archaeology | TED

Summary

In this compelling talk, an archeologist discusses the pervasive influence of pseudoarcheology, which distorts historical narratives and undermines the achievements of non-European cultures. Through personal anecdotes and examples from media, the speaker highlights how such claims often reinforce racist ideologies, suggesting that ancient non-European societies could only thrive with extraterrestrial assistance. The discussion emphasizes the need for inclusivity in archeological practices and calls for a shift in public engagement to accurately represent human history. Ultimately, the speaker urges viewers to critically assess historical narratives and recognize their implications in contemporary society.

Takeaways

• 👽 Pseudoarchaeology often misrepresents history by promoting unfounded claims about ancient cultures, such as aliens building pyramids.
• 🎭 Many people find pseudoarchaeology entertaining, but it can reinforce harmful stereotypes and narratives about non-European cultures.
• 🧠 Claims made by pseudoarchaeologists often suggest that non-European civilizations achieved their accomplishments only with external help, implying inferiority.
• 📚 The impact of pseudoarchaeology extends beyond entertainment; it perpetuates myths of white supremacy and undermines the achievements of Indigenous peoples.
• 🔍 True archaeology can be fascinating and revealing, focusing on the diverse achievements of cultures without resorting to fictional narratives.
• 📜 Education about history and archaeology should include perspectives from marginalized groups to combat racism and xenophobia.
• 🏛️ Public debates about historical monuments and curricula reflect political agendas and the importance of who gets to narrate history.
• 🗣️ Archaeologists need to make their field more inclusive by collaborating with the descendants of the cultures they study.
• 📺 There was a shift in archaeology from public engagement to professionalization, leading to a rise in pseudoarchaeology due to lack of public interest.
• 🌍 Understanding history as a political construct can help us acknowledge its influence on contemporary issues and cultural perceptions.

Q & A

What is the main profession of the speaker?

The speaker is an archeologist who studies the ancient Maya.

What does the speaker identify as pseudoarcheology?

Pseudoarcheology involves making unproven claims about the human past, such as aliens building the pyramids or Atlantis inventing hieroglyphic writing.

How does pseudoarcheology affect perceptions of historical achievements?

It often suggests that non-European cultures needed outside help for their accomplishments, which undermines the achievements of those cultures.

What example does the speaker give to illustrate the impact of pseudoarcheology on Indigenous people?

The speaker recounts a conversation with a Maya man who interpreted a traditional carving as depicting an astronaut instead of its actual cultural significance.

What two key changes does the speaker suggest for the field of archeology?

First, archeologists should make their discipline more inclusive by collaborating with the descendants of the people they study. Second, they should make archeology more accessible to the public.

How does the speaker relate the teaching of American history to the broader themes of the talk?

The speaker highlights how debates over history curricula and public monuments reflect political concerns about how history is remembered and taught.

What was the significance of the game show 'What in the World?' mentioned in the talk?

It was a program that engaged the public with archeology by presenting artifacts for contestants to identify, promoting interest and understanding of diverse cultures.

Why does the speaker find the portrayal of archeology in media problematic?

The speaker believes that sensationalized representations of archeology, such as those in pseudoarcheology, can perpetuate harmful stereotypes and misconceptions.

What message does the speaker convey about the nature of history?

The speaker asserts that history is political, ever-changing, and has a significant influence on current societal issues and individual perspectives.

How can individuals contribute to changing perceptions about the past?

Individuals can be skeptical of pseudoarcheological claims and understand that sharing or promoting such content may inadvertently support racism and xenophobia.