The discipline of archaeology is historically bound to identity, be it national, ethnic or otherwise. Such a bond is inherently political, so archaeology also becomes a political activity.

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As one of the most recent developments in archaeology – and among the most consequential – archaeogenetics can also contribute to politics. Indeed, archaeogenetic discoveries are adding a new dimension to questions of identity.

The close relationship between archaeogenetics and identity is attested by the vast amounts of studies that are being carried out, both on the micro- (Maltese and European genetic make-up) and macro-scale (human and Neanderthal genome).

Given the current political climate in Europe and Malta, archaeogenetic discoveries can provoke a wide range of reactions.

Karl Hallett, a graduate in archaeology from the University of Malta, is presently working as an archaeological monitor before starting on his Master’s degree.

 He will be giving a lecture entitled Archaeology, archaeogenetics and identity: genetic research within the Maltese context  at the National Museum of Archaeology, Republic Street, Valletta, tomorrow at 6pm. The presentation is part of the lecture programme of The Archaeological Society Malta.

The lecture will explore the public perception of archaeogenetic discoveries in the European and Maltese context, particularly their socio-political implications.

By examining the discipline’s development in theory and in practice, it will also deal with the impact of archaeogenetic research on the broader discipline of archaeology.

Entrance to the lecture tomorrow at 6pm at the National Museum of Archaeology, Valletta, is free of charge.

www.archsoc.org.mt

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