Why read Rubbish! The Archaeology of Garbage?

Book cover of Rubbish! The Archaeology of Garbage

Book description

It is from the discards of former civilizations that archaeologists have reconstructed most of what we know about the past, and it is through their examination of today’s garbage that William Rathje and Cullen Murphy inform us of our present. Rubbish! is their witty and erudite investigation into all aspects…

Explore

Topics

Archaeology

Genres

Science

When you buy books, we may earn a commission that helps keep our lights on (or join the rebellion as a member).

Why read it?

1 author picked Rubbish! The Archaeology of Garbage as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?

Shannon Lee Dawdy

Author

If we have gotten better at recycling waste in the last few decades, it is in part thanks to Bill Rathje's invention of garbology. His innovative application of archaeological excavation and analysis techniques on American landfills proved that an archaeology of contemporary life is not only possible, but can contribute to solving today's problems. Before Rathje, who knew of our disposable diaper problem, or the fact that 'compostable' waste lingers a long time in the urban dump, or that landfills ooze toxic sludge? While archaeologists of antiquity love to find a good midden full of old bones and potsherds,…

From Shannon's list on The best (and most surprising) books by archaeologists for people who don't dig.