Archaeological Views: Let the Evidence Speak

In a recent “Archaeological Views” column (“Question Authority,” 32:03), Michael Coogan said we should “beware of an argument based on ‘authority.’” While I heartily agree with Coogan, I believe there are other examples of unscientific methodology being practiced in the fields of Palestinian archaeology and Biblical studies that are just as insidious. As one schooled in the scientific method, it disturbs me that, in addition to the say-so of esteemed authority figures, many times opinions are driven by preconceived notions,¹ received knowledge, arguments from silence or majority opinion. In an objective, scientific inquiry, conclusions must be based on evidence and evidence alone.