Seminar: Hermine Xhauflair
25 OCTOBER 24
IHP-EFEO Talk
Speaker:
Hermine Xhauflair
Associate Professor & Head, Lithics Laboratory, School of Archaeology
University of the Philippines Diliman
Title:
Unveiling the Invisible: Human-Forest Interactions in Prehistoric Southeast Asia and Their Modern Relevance
Date:
Wednesday, November 20, 2024 at 10:00 am
Venue:
Room 703, Research Building, IHP, Academia Sinica
Abstract:
Recent archaeological discoveries in Southeast Asia, particularly in Southern Palawan, Philippines, are revolutionizing our understanding of prehistoric human-forest relationships. Evidence from sites like Tabon Cave reveals sophisticated adaptations to forest environments dating back 39,000-33,000 years ago. Use-wear analysis of stone tools indicates complex plant processing activities, suggesting a diverse plant-based technology that includes basket and cordage making.Ethnoarchaeological studies with indigenous Pala'wan communities have further illuminated potential plant uses in prehistoric contexts, suggesting that prehistoric groups likely engaged in forest management practices, shaping both the landscape and human societies over time. Ongoing excavations at Guri Cave in Southern Palawan aim to trace the evolution of human-forest relationships throughout the Holocene, offering a long-term perspective on tropical forest management strategies.These findings collectively challenge previous assumptions about prehistoric life in Southeast Asian forests, revealing a rich history of human-environment interactions and sophisticated plant-based technologies. This research not only contributes to our understanding of prehistoric adaptations but also provides valuable insights for studying long-term human impacts on tropical forest ecosystems.Moreover, this prehistoric knowledge has profound modern applications, as demonstrated by the "Pamana: Voices of Philippine Heritage" initiative. By engaging with prehistoric narratives and diverse cultural expressions, we can foster positive identity, facilitate cultural integration, and contribute to national development. This multivocal approach, showcased through exhibitions and workshops, integrates voices from various stakeholders, democratizing archaeological heritage and moving towards greater inclusivity.The initiative aims to present Philippine cultures globally, encourage pride among Philippine communities worldwide, empower Filipinos by fostering confidence in their heritage, protect endangered living heritage, and demonstrate the positive social role of archaeology. This research thus bridges past and present, showing how prehistory and cultural heritage can be powerful tools for empowerment, social cohesion, and development in our increasingly interconnected world.
The talk will be chaired by Dr. Chen Peiyu, Assistant Research Fellow, Institute of History and Philology, Academia Sinica, and Prof. Frank Muyard, EFEO Taipei Center.
The talk will be given in English. Registration is not required.
lecture
Speaker:
Hermine Xhauflair
Associate Professor & Head, Lithics Laboratory, School of Archaeology
University of the Philippines Diliman
Title:
Unveiling the Invisible: Human-Forest Interactions in Prehistoric Southeast Asia and Their Modern Relevance
Date:
Wednesday, November 20, 2024 at 10:00 am
Venue:
Room 703, Research Building, IHP, Academia Sinica
Abstract:
Recent archaeological discoveries in Southeast Asia, particularly in Southern Palawan, Philippines, are revolutionizing our understanding of prehistoric human-forest relationships. Evidence from sites like Tabon Cave reveals sophisticated adaptations to forest environments dating back 39,000-33,000 years ago. Use-wear analysis of stone tools indicates complex plant processing activities, suggesting a diverse plant-based technology that includes basket and cordage making.Ethnoarchaeological studies with indigenous Pala'wan communities have further illuminated potential plant uses in prehistoric contexts, suggesting that prehistoric groups likely engaged in forest management practices, shaping both the landscape and human societies over time. Ongoing excavations at Guri Cave in Southern Palawan aim to trace the evolution of human-forest relationships throughout the Holocene, offering a long-term perspective on tropical forest management strategies.These findings collectively challenge previous assumptions about prehistoric life in Southeast Asian forests, revealing a rich history of human-environment interactions and sophisticated plant-based technologies. This research not only contributes to our understanding of prehistoric adaptations but also provides valuable insights for studying long-term human impacts on tropical forest ecosystems.Moreover, this prehistoric knowledge has profound modern applications, as demonstrated by the "Pamana: Voices of Philippine Heritage" initiative. By engaging with prehistoric narratives and diverse cultural expressions, we can foster positive identity, facilitate cultural integration, and contribute to national development. This multivocal approach, showcased through exhibitions and workshops, integrates voices from various stakeholders, democratizing archaeological heritage and moving towards greater inclusivity.The initiative aims to present Philippine cultures globally, encourage pride among Philippine communities worldwide, empower Filipinos by fostering confidence in their heritage, protect endangered living heritage, and demonstrate the positive social role of archaeology. This research thus bridges past and present, showing how prehistory and cultural heritage can be powerful tools for empowerment, social cohesion, and development in our increasingly interconnected world.
The talk will be chaired by Dr. Chen Peiyu, Assistant Research Fellow, Institute of History and Philology, Academia Sinica, and Prof. Frank Muyard, EFEO Taipei Center.
The talk will be given in English. Registration is not required.
lecture