I think education of the future generations is the only real solution to
looting problems. We have the ability now to give future generations a good
perception of archaeology. However, what to do about this and past generations
is a difficult task, one that I don't think can be resolved. We must instead
learn how to coexist with looters. I have had positive contacts with looters
and I have had negative contact with looters, I think if we understand each
other and our perspective, philosophy, etc. we can tolerate each other. We
must remember that we as professional and academic archaeologists have a
perception of what is ethical and what a legitimate claim to archaeological
resources are and looters have their own perception. Who is to say who is
correct? Is there really a correct? Unfortunately these perceptions often
clash. Maybe we can develop some kind of mutual respect.
These are just some thoughts and not necessarily practice on my part.
M. Jay Stottman