(Originally posted: 2/28/2012)
Two soon-to-air basic cable reality shows are set to feature for-profit treasure hunters as they dig up and sell archaeological materials. While both shows are no doubt following the letter of the law, they are inexcusably unethical, and will no doubt lead to far too many copycat looters destroying our archaeological heritage. What can you do? Read the full post to find out!
This, unfortunately, is the logical endpoint of the reality-antique craze (shows like “American Pickers” and “Pawn Stars”): “If you don’t already have something old and valuable, steal it from our collective heritage! It’s fun and easy, and we’ll even show you how!” Both shows’ promo materials seem to revel in the fact that their stars have no archaeological training or expertise.
There are already online petition campaigns calling for both shows to be pulled from the air. I encourage everyone to sign, and then to spread this news to anyone who cares about out past.
The first show is “American Digger,” to air on SpikeTV (so you just know it’s going to be the height of intellectual responsibility). The show’s press release can be seen here (beware any word wrap):
and the petition against it is located here:
http://www.change.org/petitions/stop-spike-tv-from-looting-our-collective-past
The second show is “Diggers” and will begin airing tomorrow night on National Geographic Channel (which should be ashamed of itself for its irresponsibility). The promotional material for this show is located here:
http://www.anacondatreasure.com/diggers.html
And the petition against it is at:
Please sign, then spread the word!