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Epilogue: Stable Isotope Analysis in Archaeology – Current Perspectives and Future Directions

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Exploring Human Behavior Through Isotope Analysis

Part of the book series: Interdisciplinary Contributions to Archaeology ((IDCA))

Abstract

This chapter discusses the current state and future directions of the application of stable isotopes to archaeological materials. New technologies have facilitated massive growth in this field over the last twenty years. I briefly discuss some of these advancements and highlight some issues associated with maintaining quality control in the publication process. I highlight some interpretive techniques, such as mixing models, that have been used to make sense of isotopic data, highlighting the importance of generating excellent isotopic baselines to minimize inaccurate interpretations. The characterization of the isotopic composition of heavier elements and individual compounds is a burgeoning area of study that promises to produce important new insights. I close with my thoughts on the importance of mentoring the next generation of scholars in this field.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Anthropology, Trent University, Peterborough, ON, Canada

    Paul Szpak

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  1. Paul Szpak
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Correspondence to Paul Szpak .

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Editors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Anthropology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA

    Melanie M. Beasley

  2. Department of World Languages and Cultures, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, USA

    Andrew D. Somerville

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Szpak, P. (2023). Epilogue: Stable Isotope Analysis in Archaeology – Current Perspectives and Future Directions. In: Beasley, M.M., Somerville, A.D. (eds) Exploring Human Behavior Through Isotope Analysis. Interdisciplinary Contributions to Archaeology. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-32268-6_13

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-32268-6_13

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