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Is Indiana Jones bad for Archaeology?

Its a movie character. Its not a bunch of people picketing against the horrors of Archaeology. Its not a bunch of dinosaurs or mummies who somehow managed to come forward in time to protest the grave robbing of their remains. Its a movie character.

Mind you, it is extremely relevant in this day and age to recognize the importance of what is aired on television and in films. For the sake of humanity's younger beings. That task falls to those who produce movies and televisions shows. Its also important that parents monitor what their children watch. But I sincerely doubt watching an Indiana Jones movie will set America youths on the criminally based road of Archaeology. In fact, I would think the exact opposite of the situation. How many parents out there had their child tell them they suddenly had an interest in being like Indiana Jones or that they actually wanted to be an Archaeologist. Of course, kids say the wildest and most outlandish things but I'll bet some parent has heard it. And whether or not they meant it isn't really important at all. They said it. And its a positive statement.

Of course, we cant ignore the people out there who are Archaeologists and are very happily to be so. I suppose one or more of them may think Indiana Jones type movies portray a silly and outlandish side to their occupation. They have that option, it is how they live there lives. But I see the movies as an homage. Think about it, you tell someone your an archeologist and I'll bet someone replies with a heartfelt and jovial, "You mean like Indiana Jones?" I see it as more of a compliment than anything. Indiana has inadvertently become the poster boy for archaeologist.
I recall going to see one of the films alone, with a packed movie theater at that. Who doesn't like Indiana Jones? In this particular film they had a portrayal of him as a child trying to attain some archeological artifact from villains that only wanted it as means of a profit. You know what the kid says to this, "It belongs in a museum." Now I along with the entire audience giggled at this corny reply but it was as noble and altruistic as one so young could get. A positive note delivered to hundreds of children around the world.
As I see it, the field is probably free of real competitors, not a lot of people actually become archaeologist but I'd wager enough do.
Indiana Jones is not bad for Archaeology. In fact, he's quite good for it. Besides, its just a movie.

Learn more about this author, Professor Charles Xavier.
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