Hidden Gems: FCL 109 - "It Wasn’t Aliens!" Critically Analyzing Pseudoarchaeology, Myths & Mysteries
Ancient stone sculptures frame a Maya temple at Chichen Itza in Mexico.
Do you find past civilizations fascinating? Ever wonder who built the pyramids around
the world and how? Are you intrigued by ancient hieroglyphic texts? Do you ponder
the meaning of ancient artwork and paintings? Or are you curious about how anthropologists
and archaeologists carry out their research?
There are abundant claims about these very topics presented to us in our everyday
lives through TV shows, magazine covers and the news. Often, it can be a challenge
to separate the facts from fiction.
This course is taught by a linguistic anthropologist who, for nearly 25 years, has
conducted fieldwork in Mexico. Let this practicing scientist be your guide as you
explore the marvels and discover the ingenuity of ancient and past civilizations,
while also learning how to critically analyze topics of controversy in these areas.