Final answer:
The New Archaeology aimed to shift archaeology towards a more scientific, hypothesis-driven approach, emphasizing controlled excavations and understanding the contexts of finds.
Step-by-step explanation:
The aim of the New Archaeology that emerged in the 1960s can be best attributed to shifting the discipline towards a more scientific and hypothesis-driven approach. This movement sought to apply a rigorous scientific method to archaeological research, emphasizing hypothesis testing, quantitative methods, and the use of new technologies.
Unlike previous practices which sometimes involved looting and destruction, New Archaeology emphasized the need for controlled excavations and a deeper understanding of the cultural and environmental contexts of archaeological finds. The goal was to make interpretations of the past that were as objective as possible, using the available evidence to test theories about ancient societies.