This <EM>Reader in Archaeological Theory</EM> presents sixteen articles of key theoretical significance, in a format which makes this notoriously complex area easier for students to understand.<BR> This volume:<BR> * provides an intellectual history of different approaches to archaeology which contextualizes the complex traditions of cognitive archaeology and postprocessualism on which it focuses<BR> * organizes theories of archaeology, the meanings of things, the prehistoric mind and cognition, gender, ideology and social theory and archaeology's relationship to today's society and politics<BR> * includes lucid section introductions to each section which provide context, explain why the papers are so significant and summarize their key points<BR> * emphasizes research from the 'New World', making archaeological theory especially relevant and accessible to students in North America.