Digital Knowledge as Archaeological Spatial Praxis

Abstract

This paper extends on recent research in digital cultural heritage by arguing for an enhanced engagement with post-processual archaeology. While recent digital heritage projects have demonstrated an effective use of high end user interaction with elements adapted from computer games and interactive new media systems, the dominant trend in digital heritage remains highly dependent on deterministic and functionalist views of the past. This paper explores new research developments in interpretative or post-processual archaeology and their applicability to an interpretative digital cultural heritage. An interpretative digital cultural heritage privileges interpretation over information and affective experience over representation. From this digital heritage is conceptualised as archaeological spatial praxis where the past is not only visualized but also enacted and embodied.