In our discipline, the term “armchair archaeologist” harkens back to the earlier days of study, when “professionals” published studies without really doing any of the dirty work – only theorizing from their armchairs. You, however, do not need a degree or a field school to appreciate the importance of anthropological study. The media listed below are recommended based on their relevance and academic origin; they are for you to enjoy and engage with anthropological study and thought – perhaps from the comfort of your armchair.

Archaeology/Bioarchaeology

Lives in Ruins: Archaeologists and the Seductive Lure of Human Rubble  (Marilyn Johnson)

The Archaeology of Death & Burial (Michael Parker Pearson, PhD)

The Shadow King: The Bizarre Afterlife of King Tut’s Mummy (Jo Marchant)

Uncorking the Past: The Quest for Wine, Beer, and Other Alcoholic Beverages (Patrick E. McGovern, PhD)

Forensic Anthropology

Bodies We’ve Buried: Inside the National Forensic Academy, the World’s Top CSI Training School (Jarrett Hallcox & Amy Welch)

Bones: A Forensic Detective’s Casebook (Douglas H. Ubelaker, PhD & Henry Scammell)

Dead Men Do Tell Tales (Michael Browning & William R. Maples, PhD)

Death’s Acre: Inside the Legendary Forensic Lab the Body Farm Where Dead Men Do Tell Tales (William M. Bass, PhD & Jon Jefferson)

Podcasts

The Infinite Monkey Cage (Brian Cox, PhD & Robin Ince)

Series 8: What is Death?

Series 10: Are Humans Uniquely Unique?

Series 12: USA Tour (Chicago); Forensic Science

Series 13: What is Race?