Towards a Cultural Economy: Lessons from the American South-West. (August 2014)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Gangloff, Deborah
• Is Part Of: Public archaeology. Volume 13:Number 1/3(2014)
• Page Start: 250
• Page End: 261
• Publication Date: 2014-08
• Subjects: Archaeology and state -- Periodicals; Archaeology -- Political aspects -- Periodicals; Archaeology -- Economic aspects -- Periodicals; Archaeology -- Social aspects -- Periodicals; Archaeology -- Philosophy -- Periodicals; 930.1
• DOI: 10.1179/1465518714Z.00000000064
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1465-5187

Abstract

<abstract> <title> <x content-type="archive" xml:space="preserve">Abstract</x> </title> <p>The United States has an enviable diversity of public lands that are held in trust for all Americans. However, there is a war raging in the US between exploitative and protectionist ideals. The war's main victim is America's public lands. Some believe that public lands — open landscapes preserved for their scenic beauty, ecological assets (especially clean air and water), and cultural and natural resources — are best used for mining these resources, specifically their energy (oil, gas, and coal) reserves. It is the responsibility of archaeologists to contribute their perspective on this national and international public policy debate and help to build a cultural economy perspective. In addition to highlighting heritage tourism economies built on travel, meals, souvenir, and lodging expenditures, archaeologists must help convey the value of preserving historic sites.</p> </abstract>