Description: "In recent years, new discoveries yielded through analysis of ancient DNA have made headlines around the world. Can and should we take these stories at face value? In this thought-provoking book, archaeologist Anna Kèallâen provides a concise and accessible guide to the promises and perils of telling stories about the past using genomic science. Acknowledging the power of ancient DNA to rewrite ideas about who we are and where we came from, Kèallâen offers a variety of cautionary examples to demonstrate why such narratives should be received, understood, and crafted with greater accuracy as well as sensitivity. Probing the gaps between the hype and the science, The Trouble with Ancient DNA is required reading for anyone interested in the fascinating findings of paleogenomics"--
Brief description:
Anna Källén is professor and chair of museology at Umeå University in Sweden. She is the author or editor of books including Stones Standing, The Archaeologist In-Between, Heritage and Borders, and Critical Perspectives on Ancient DNA.
Review Quotes: "Genetic science is commonly considered to produce untainted truth. However, Källén cautions readers that uncritical interpretation of ancient DNA (aDNA) data, often as part of narrative devices used to report findings to nonexpert colleagues and especially the public, can convey disinformation. . . . The book is particularly noteworthy as a cautionary tale for researchers when presenting aDNA-based findings as a history of our ancient ancestors. . . . Highly recommended."-- "CHOICE"