Lawrence H. Keeley

Lawrence H. Keeley was an American archaeologist who made significant contributions to prehistoric archaeology through his pioneering work in microwear analysis of stone tools. His innovative research methods in experimental archaeology and lithic studies earned him the Society for American Archaeology's Award for Excellence in Lithic Studies. Keeley's most widely known work is his 1996 book "War Before Civilization: The Myth of the Peaceful Savage," which challenged prevailing notions about prehistoric warfare and violence. His research demonstrated that prehistoric societies experienced levels of warfare comparable to or exceeding those of modern civilizations. After completing his education at San Jose State University and the University of Oxford, Keeley spent most of his academic career at the University of Illinois Chicago, where he served as a professor from 1978 until his retirement in 2014. Throughout his career, he maintained a focus on prehistoric archaeology and the development of analytical techniques for studying ancient tools and artifacts. Keeley's methodological contributions to archaeology, particularly in the field of use-wear analysis, continue to influence modern archaeological practice and research. His work helped establish more rigorous standards for analyzing prehistoric tools and understanding their functions.

Readers value Keeley's evidence-based approach in challenging the "noble savage" myth and documenting prehistoric warfare. His book "War Before Civilization" receives praise for thorough archaeological data and clear arguments about violence in prehistoric societies. Readers appreciate: - Detailed archaeological evidence - Challenge to romanticized views of prehistory - Clear writing style for complex topics - Extensive citations and research Common criticisms: - Some find his tone too aggressive - Critics say he overstates violence rates - A few note potential selection bias in evidence - Some want more analysis of peaceful societies Ratings: Goodreads: 4.1/5 (1,200+ ratings) Amazon: 4.5/5 (280+ ratings) "Changed my perspective on human nature" appears in multiple reviews. Several archaeologists praise his methodology while disagreeing with specific conclusions. Student reviewers note the book's accessibility despite dense academic content.

War Before Civilization: The Myth of the Peaceful Savage (1996) A detailed examination of archaeological evidence demonstrating that prehistoric warfare was frequent and lethal, challenging the notion of peaceful pre-state societies and documenting patterns of violence in prehistoric human groups.

Steven Pinker Studies violence and human nature through the lens of evolutionary psychology and cognitive science. He examines the decline of violence throughout human history in "The Better Angels of Our Nature," which builds on themes explored by Keeley.

Brian Fagan Specializes in archaeological research and writes about prehistoric societies and climate change impacts on human development. His work on ancient warfare and social organization complements Keeley's research on prehistoric violence.

Timothy Taylor Focuses on prehistoric technology and archaeological theory with emphasis on ancient warfare and burial practices. His research on prehistoric violence and social complexity aligns with Keeley's findings about warfare in early societies.

David Lewis-Williams Studies prehistoric art and cognitive archaeology with particular attention to shamanic practices and social structures. His analysis of prehistoric societies provides context for understanding the cultural systems in which ancient warfare occurred.

Barry Cunliffe Examines European prehistory and the development of ancient societies through archaeological evidence. His research on prehistoric migrations and social interactions provides parallel evidence to Keeley's work on ancient conflict patterns.