The Pleasure of Speculation and Conjecture: Early Euro-American Visions of Nan Madol and their Relevance to PostModern Archaeological Investigations

Hanlon, David (1990-01-01). "The Pleasure of Speculation and Conjecture: Early Euro-American Visions of Nan Madol and their Relevance to PostModern Archaeological Investigations" (PDF). Micronesica. Suppl. 2: 99–116. ISSN 2374-801X.

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Abstract: “The Pleasure of Speculation and Conjecture: Early Euro-American Visions of Nan Madol and their Relevance to PostModern Archaeological Investigations” examines the historical and cultural context of how early Euro-American explorers and scholars described Nan Madol, a site of stone ruins on Pohnpei, and its relevance to modern archaeological discourse.

It highlights that early accounts were marked by speculation and conjecture, often reflecting the biases and limitations of the times. Figures such as Campbell, Gulick, and Kubary provided varying interpretations based on their cultural lenses, ranging from attributing the site to an ancient advanced race to recognizing it as a product of Pohnpeian ancestors. The article discusses how these early interpretations impacted the understanding of Pohnpeian history and culture and contemplates the implications of these narratives for contemporary archaeological studies in Micronesia.

The paper further explores the limitations and biases inherent in scientific inquiries, reminding readers that archaeology is an interpretive science influenced by Euro-American perspectives. It stresses the importance of acknowledging this cultural context while conducting archaeological research and calls for sensitivity to local narratives and historical continuity . The article concludes by suggesting that while modern investigations have surpassed early misconceptions, there remains a need for inclusive approaches that respect and integrate indigenous perspectives and understandings of history