Max Planck (1858-1947) was a trailblazer of quantum theory, that confusing branch of physics which describes the inherent unpredictability of the very small. It’s kind of appropriate, then, that researchers at his namesake foundations – two of the Max Planck Institutes in Germany – are shedding uncertainty in the tiny world of molecular archaeology. It’s … Read More “The Ghost of the Sea” »
Tag: origins of agriculture
Happy February, readers! I hope you’re not too wet. Now, I was lucky enough to receive as a Christmas present this excellent volume: Cunliffe, B. (2012). Britain Begins (Oxford University Press; Oxford). The prolific and erudite knight Professor Sir Barry Cunliffe probably needs no introduction for the readership of this blog but, for the curious, … Read More “Domesticated Bliss” »
It’s always a pleasure when agricultural archaeology and related disciplines hit the headlines, and it’s happened at least twice recently. BBC News has courteously flagged up two pieces of new research, indicating the hitherto unexpected sophisication of farming and diet in prehistory. This very day, we learn that “Prehistoric Europeans spiced up their cooking.” And, … Read More “Of Mustard and Manure” »