Beginning in 1978 with Volume 1, Advances in Archaeological Method and Theory has annually issued a hardcover volume of essays. This serial publication is intended to synthesize and make accessible recent research on diverse topics of archaeological method and theory. The volumes are used extensively by professional archaeologists and anthropologists, as well as by students, and this favorable reception encouraged us to make available a selection of papers from Volumes 1-4 in a convenient paperback format suitable for classroom use. In consultation with the members of the Advisory Board, the editor chose 13 papers. The paramount criteria in selecting papers were the generality of a subject and its potential for initiating spirited discussions. Regrettably, many excellent papers could not be included. We hope that the ideas arrayed in this volume, despite its shortcomings as an exhaustive compendium, will stimulate fruitful debate and inspire the next generation of students to develop a more powerful and refined archaeological method and theory. xiii