Final answer:
The first scientific excavation in archaeology marked a significant move towards methodical, systematic study and recording of materials found in situ. This excavation utilized principles like the cross-cutting relationship, chronometric dating, and dendrochronology to date artifacts and relied on the emic perspective for culturally sensitive interpretation.
Step-by-step explanation:
The first scientific excavation in the history of archaeology refers to an archaeological dig that was conducted with systematic methodologies and careful recording of findings, unlike earlier practices that were more haphazard and often ignored context. The process of archaeological excavation involves uncovering artifacts, ecofacts, and other cultural and biological remains by using scientific and methodical procedures. Early forms of artifact collection, such as armchair anthropology, lacked the physical exploration and study of artifacts in their original context which is essential for scientific research.
One important principle in these excavations is understanding the cross-cutting relationship, which provides insights into the relative ages of geologic or cultural features. Excavators apply a variety of dating methods, including chronometric dating and dendrochronology, to determine the age of the artifacts and to develop a chronology of past human activities. Scientists and archaeologists also take an emic perspective to evaluate cultures according to their own standards, which can help avoid bias and ethnocentrism in interpreting findings.
The first scientific excavation represented a shift towards more responsible and interpretive practices in archaeology, emphasizing the context and recording of artifacts in situ, and the use of modern technologies and techniques to enhance the accuracy and depth of data collected.