Criminology and Archaeology: Studies in Looted Antiquities

(Paperback)

Available Formats

Publishing Details

Classifications

Physical Properties

Description

This collection is the product of a collaborative venture between criminologists and archaeologists concerned with the international market in illicit antiquities. It examines the state of regulation in the antiquities market, with a particular focus on the UK's position, but also with reference to the international context. Looting happens routinely and many countries have rich deposits of cultural material. Antiquities are highly collectable, and there are several prominent international centres for trade. As well as the legitimate face of the antiquities trade there therefore exists an international illicit market in which cultural objects are trafficked for profit in breach of national laws and international conventions. It is within such a complex international and local regulatory context that the essays presented here emerge, focusing upon three areas in particular: the demand for looted antiquities; the supply of cultural artefacts which originate in source countries; and regulation of the international market in antiquities. Criminology has long been interested in transnational crime and its regulation. Archaeologists' concerns lie in the destructive consequences of antiquities looting, which erases our knowledge of the past. In the papers presented here both disciplines present new data and analysis to forge a more coherent understanding of the nature and failings of the regulatory framework currently in place to combat the criminal market in antiquities.

Reviews

I have nothing but praise for the overall effort of the book to suggest a promising relationship between criminology and archaeology as well as for the information on the illicit market in antiquities provided by the individual papers. -- Sawyer Sylvester * Law and Politics Book Review *
This reviewer would argue that, despite some of the more theoretical contributions being challenging to someone without a background in criminology, they should be required reading for anyone who feels moved to comment on, or is in a position to influence, the framing or application of laws or regulations relating to what is an abhorrent and destructive trade. -- Pete Wilson * Conservation and Management of Archaeological Sites Journal, Volume 12, Number 4 *

Author Bio

Penny Green is Professor of Law and Criminology, Head of Research and Director of the Law School's Research Degree Programme at King's College, London. Simon Mackenzie is Reader in Criminology at the Scottish Centre for Crime and Justice Research, University of Glasgow.