>To: Robert Johnson <[log in to unmask]>
>From: [log in to unmask] (David S. Rotenstein)
>Subject: 106 more than Native Americans
>
>Add my post to the growing list of folks whose fingers can't quite fully
depress the delete key where Johnson is concerned.
>
>Johnson: Get a life. Yes, archaeology and anthropology are politicized
disciplines and yes, there are a lot of problems related to the motives and
conduct of people engaging in both fields, but why don't you just shut-up
and find another forum for your anger. You have a very narrow vision of what
archaeology does -- yes, you appear to have an excellent command of the
literature and history of archaeology and anthropology and you are an
eloquent, but misguided, writer. But, alas, you are an undereducated,
sophomoric blowhard with very little of real substance to offer anyone but
your overinflated estimation of your own value to the disciplines and
society at large.
>
>Though I am an archaeologist, I choose to practice historical archaeology.
As with its prehistoric focus, there are problems of bias and politics
rampant in this subfield. And I have chosen to write of them in the past in
productive ways. Without the 106 process, a lot of the past would stay where
it is today: in the past. There would be no legally mandated means for
preserving the material remains of the past and they would be lost forever
to utility, transportation or private development. At least within the
existing legal and regulatory framework, there is some mechanism to preserve
the past, both Native American, and historical (including voluntary and
involuntary immigrants). Native Americans fought hard and long to obtain
legal protection under NAGPRA, but other groups do not enjoy the same
protection.  Your vision and reduction of heritage protection under NAGPRA
are limited and very narrow.
>
>That's my two cents. Again, Johnson, get a life and find some better way to
use your mind. You are a prime example of how dangerous a little education
and a lot of potential are.  When I was younger (not that I'm all that old
now), I too had a big mouth and a partially developed mind. Fortunately, I
learned to control my mouth (and pen). It paid off, too. When the time comes
for you to leave school and get a job, be VERY selective of where you send
your CV: those of us who read them have very good memories.
>
>David S. Rotenstein
>