Theorising Value: Not for the faint-hearted!
Channel: Recording Archaeology
Date: 2019-04-09

Statements about the values of heritage abound: in terms of lists of what they are; of how values can be measured; of their nature (e.g. ‘multiple’, ‘contested’); how they can be used; etc. Many are discipline-specific (e.g. statements about the economic value of heritage), others simplistic (e.g. reducing heritage values to those of tourism), others simply arcane. The professional ‘values-based’ approach to management of heritage draws upon much of this literature and discussion, at the service of the work of official agencies. In doing so it reflects agendas set outside the realm where heritage operates – which is in reflecting and constructing how individuals and communities identify their own sense of identity. The ‘values-based’ approach makes multiple assumptions about the nature of heritage, about who can make claims upon it, and at whose service it exists. Drawing upon 25 years of engagement with trying to understand heritage as a phenomenon and the values it holds, represents, or are ascribed to it, this paper will outline the dangers of attempting to theorise heritage and heritage value within a framework of official policy. It is an area fraught with problems and difficulties that can undermine the very reason for attempting to theorise value in the first instance. It is definitely NOT for the faint of heart!  

John Carman (University of Birmingham)