How is AI Changing Archaeology / Anthropology / History / Native Studies?

In this episode, Paul, Maurizio, Parker, Steven, and James discuss:How AI and machine learning have changed the approach to archeological research.Understanding the paradigm shift AI brings to archaeology.Multi-factorial and the human factor.Ethical considerations surrounding AI, indigenous communities, and cultural heritage.Key Takeaways:We are currently in a stage of experimentation where we are figuring out what AI and machine learning are good at doing. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn’t.Multi-factorial analysis allows for gathering and analyzing information at scale, generating new knowledge and opening up lines of questioning.AI is not an all-seeing eye to identify all archaeological sites. It will not replace the human archaeologist with human-interpretive skills. We need to be intentional about how we engage with AI technology and the types of questions we ask of it.“If we leave technology to the technology or to the technologists, we miss the point, which is ethical analysis, discussion of different ontologies and human interpretation, which is necessary in many terms.” - Dr. Maurizio ForteEpisode Resources:Artificial intelligence rethinks the past: How computers are reconstructing Etruscan and Roman landscapesVision Foundation Models in Remote Sensing: A surveyAugmenting field data with archaeological imagery survey: mapping hilltop fortifications on the north coast of PeruAbout Dr. Forte: Dr. Maurizio Forte is the William and Sue Gross Distinguished Professor of Classical Studies, Art, Art History, and Visual Studies at Duke University. He is a pioneer in digital archaeology, integrating technologies such as virtual reality, AI, and neuroaesthetics into the study of ancient civilizations. As the founder of the Dig@Lab at Duke, he leads interdisciplinary research at the intersection of cultural heritage and emerging technologies. Dr. Forte currently serves as an AAAS-SPTF Fellow and advisor for cultural heritage and neurodiplomacy at the U.S. Department of State.Connect with Maurizio:Website: maurizioforte.comAbout Dr. VanValkenburgh: Dr. Parker VanValkenburgh is an Associate Professor of Anthropology at Brown University and Interim Director of the Center for Latin American and Caribbean Studies. His research focuses on the long-term impacts of colonialism and imperialism on Indigenous communities in the Peruvian Andes. Utilizing archaeological methods, GIS, and remote sensing, he co-directs projects like the Paisajes Arqueológicos de Chachapoyas (PACha) and the Geospatial Pla