Archäologische Denkmalpflege: ist eine Zusammenarbeit mit der Metalldetektorindustrie ethisch vertretbar?

Ein Meinungsbeitrag und Appell

Abstract

Metal detectors are crucial in the realm of archaeological research. Like any advanced technological equipment, proper introduction and training are imperative for effective and reliable field usage. Manufacturers of metal detectors provide educational programmes and training sessions that teach the appropriate utilization of these devices. Moreover, they distribute free metal detectors to archaeologists and museums, while also offering professional services to archaeologists. The question arises: should or may archaeologists accept these services and gifts provided by the detector industry? The author scrutinises the marketing strategies of the metal detector industry, revealing their occasionally duplicitous and deceptive claims. Given the industry’s generally adversarial stance towards the preservation of archaeological heritage - and considering its misleading policies over the past five decades - archaeologists and heritage conservators should reassess their collaborations with metal detector manufacturers and representatives of treasure hunting.