Present pasts in the archaeology of genetics, identity and migration in Europe: a critical essay

Abstract

In this essay, we interrogate how aDNA analyses have been blended with the study of migrations in European prehistory. Genetic research into ancient populations has given archaeologists and geneticists a new and rich data-set that sparks media coverage and public fascination. Yet far right wing and racist political activists also report on and repeat the results of archaeogenetic studies because it bolsters their image of ‘Fortress Europe’ under threat from biologically distinct non-Europeans. We worry about the lack of action, even discussion, we perceive among archaeologists and archaeogeneticists faced with this ugly appropriation of their research. In order to address these concerns, we have taken a deliberately provocative style. Even as we realise that the politically questionable interpretive implications of aDNA research are most likely unintended, we strongly believe that we must acknowledge their power before we can ameliorate our approach.