The Happiness Machine, or How to be an Archaeologist in a Changing World

Abstract

Archaeologists have the ambition to play a larger role in society, be guides or create social capital. The author takes Brexit as a means to explore these ideas. The upcoming divorce of the UK from the EU gives an opportunity to explore the possibilities for the roles strived for. By doing so it seems that archaeologists are not only a part of the solution but also part of the problem. To realise their ambitions, it is argued that they have to change the manner in which they engage the public. By enlarging access to archaeologists and actively using their sense of fun, talents and flair for entertainment they should be able to create a healthier environment for themselves that gives a base to benefit society as a whole. In the case of Brexit that would mean a dampening down of fear on all sides due to a broader understanding of the other in the light of historical roots of modern society.

Keywords:

• Brexit
• archaeology
• emotions
• strategy
• introspection
• reinvention