Behavioural archaeology

Behavioural archaeology is an archaeological theory that expands upon the nature and aims of archaeology in regards to human behaviour and material culture.^[1] The theory was first published in 1975 by American archaeologist Michael B. Schiffer and his colleagues J. Jefferson Reid, and William L. Rathje.^[1] The theory proposes four strategies that answer questions about past, and present cultural behaviour.^[1] It is also a means for archaeologists to observe human behaviour and the archaeological consequences that follow.^[2]

The theory was developed as a reaction to changes in archaeological thought, and expanding archaeological practise during the mid-late 20th century.^[3] It reacted to the increasing number of sub-disciplines emerging within archaeology as each came with their own unique methodologies.^[1] The theory was also a reaction to the processual thought process that emerged within the discipline some years prior.^[4][5][6][7]

In recent years the use of behavioural archaeology has been regarded as a significant contribution to the archaeological community.^[4] The strategies outlined by Schiffer and his colleagues have developed into sub-disciplines or methodologies that are used and well-regarded in contemporary archaeological practise.^[4][8][9] Behavioural archaeology has positive effects on the method in which archaeologists use to reconstruct human behaviour.^[2]