Exploring an Experimental Archaeologist’s Hands-On Lab: Unveiling Ancient Techniques
Metin Eren, an archaeologist at Kent State University, is turning the Stone Age on its head with his Experimental Archaeology Laboratory. From flint-knapping to butchery, Eren and his team are reverse-engineering ancient technologies to uncover the secrets of our ancestors. But beyond the colorful experiments and quirky projects lies a serious dedication to scientific inquiry.
Unearthing Ancient Legends
In a fascinating experiment, Eren tested a famous anthropological legend about an elderly Inuit man who fashioned a knife out of frozen feces to survive in the Arctic. While the blades failed every test, the study earned Eren an Ig Nobel Prize, showcasing the unique and unconventional nature of his research.
The Science Behind the Art
Eren’s lab is a hub of activity, with projects ranging from ballistics tests to pottery-making. Students with diverse skills like music and woodworking find a home in the lab, combining their talents with scientific rigor under Eren’s guidance. His mastery of flint-knapping and dedication to hands-on research set a high bar for the next generation of archaeologists.
Challenges and Discoveries
Despite the limitations of studying the Stone Age, Eren perseveres, tackling issues like the “Prevalence of Equifinality” and the mysteries of ancient tools. Through controlled experiments and replication studies, he pushes the boundaries of experimental archaeology, paving the way for a new era in the field.
As Eren delves deeper into cultural evolution and the intersection of technology and culture, his work illuminates the past while shaping the future of archaeology. With a blend of passion, expertise, and a touch of humor, Metin Eren is not just rewriting history—he’s redefining it.
Jennifer is a senior reporter at Ars Technica with a particular focus on where science meets culture, covering everything from physics and related interdisciplinary topics to her favorite films and TV series. Jennifer lives in Baltimore with her spouse, physicist Sean M. Carroll, and their two cats, Ariel and Caliban.