Anticipating the Next Wave of Archaeological Network Research

Abstract

Abstract As indicated by the diversity of chapters in this volume, network methods are now established techniques for investigating a wide range of past relational phenomena. While this work is encouraging and much has been learned, there are domains of archaeological inquiry where network approaches have not been as widely adopted. We conclude this Handbook of Archaeological Network Research by considering some possible future directions of investigation, and what this research has to offer beyond archaeology. In particular, we outline four areas where archaeological network research could play an important role: (1) archaeological landscapes and socioecological systems; (2) cultural and biological evolution; (3) historical archaeology; and (4) archaeological praxis. As we anticipate the next wave of archaeological network research, we argue for continued interdisciplinary collaboration and methodological innovation to realize the full potential of network science for archaeology.