4. Influences & Inspirations

This section of the blog provides further information on some of the influences behind this blog, in the form of bibliographies to find out more about some of the key subjects covered herein. (In alphabetic order):

[Please note: the lists themselves are very much still under development I shall remove this note when they are more fully developed... I know what I want to put on the lists, i just need to find the time!]

Anarchism:

Anarchism

This section contains readings, video and links to do with anarchy, anarchism, and anarchists, the section contains both classical anarchist writers and contemporary. As well as a wide range of anarchist ideas and practices.








Anthropology:

Anthropology

Although I studied a few anthropological courses at University, I approach anthropology as an outsider, an interested party, knowing that many of their findings and ideas are of use to many fields of thought, and society as a whole. I also work as an ethnographic conservator so in my day to day work I deal with the material remains of the discipline, in many (but not all) instances the material remains of its colonial aggressive period.


Archaeology:

Archaeology

I trained as an archaeologist at the Institute of Archaeology, and to a large extent the approaches and skills of archaeology colour not only my conservation outlook, but, moreover my approach to all things. Digging isn’t something that leaves you once it gets in your blood… Dirt monkeys of the world Unite!










Conservation:

Conservation

I use an image of a lab to illustrate this section, however, from a cursory read of this bibliography you will see I define conservation to be a much wider activity than simply that which takes place within the laboratory setting. These are some of the texts that influence my approach to conservation, for my own writings about conservation in addition to this blog see my CV for my own bibliography.








Education:

Education

I am interested in education, not only in terms of how conservators are educated at university but also in general theories of pedagogy and critical pedagogy, as well as popular education, and the role the museum plays in public education, and I have written several blog posts about this interest.

Film:

Film

This category includes many films, documentary and acted, that have been influential in developing some of my ideas. The aim of this section is not to list all the films I can think of that have been influential, but, to list only those where I can locate an online version.










Heritage Industry:

Heritage Industry

I have been very influenced by the critiques surrounding heritage as an industry, and although I haven’t read a huge amount about the subject, I shall endeavor to read more and fill out this bibliography.










History of Science:

History of Science

I’ve been influenced by readings scholars of the history of science, and I think it would be a useful and interesting endeavor to develop a history of the science of conservation. Both contextualizing the practice and elucidating a theory of scientific conservation.








Material Culture Studies:

Material Culture

This bibliography deals with readings directly related to material culture studies, there is of course some elements of cross over between this and other reading lists. But, it is a distinct field of thought and so it deserves its own list, and will inevitably grow over time.










Philosophy & Politics:

Philosophy & Politics

These readings concentrate on western philosophy and critical thinking, as well as readings from a variety of political movements and ideas. The list does not intend to put forward a list of ‘ideas to support’ but is rather just some interesting ideas for thought.










Social Media/Web 2.0:

Social Media/Web 2.0

This bibliography is a little different to the others, as rather than being a link to a bibliographic page that will develop over time, this is a one off blog post that may have additions made, but, it will remain essentially the same.












Theology and Religion:

Theology and Religion

Religion continues to play a significant role in society, understanding the diversity of religious belief and also their similarities, and understanding the traditions and practices of these religions is not only an interest for theosophy but should be of interest to all who work with cultural heritage, for religion no doubt played a significant part in its production.