The book explores the concept of chaîne opératoire in relation to archaeological artifacts, analyzing their history, evaluation, and interpretation throughout their life cycle—from production to discard. By examining specific objects across various contexts and time periods, it illustrates how the meaning of artifacts is contextually dependent. Each chapter focuses on different artifacts, ranging from colonial American to prehistoric European, while also providing linguists with a new framework for understanding language evolution. Its unique interdisciplinary approach sets it apart in archaeological discourse.
