Interactions In Space For Archaeological Models

TL;DR

This paper explores different quantitative models for archaeological networks, focusing on maritime routes in the Aegean Middle Bronze Age, comparing maximum entropy and cost-efficient network models.

Contribution

It distinguishes between the most probable and most efficient network models, providing insights into ancient maritime connectivity.

Findings

Maximum entropy models best fit archaeological data

Cost-benefit models highlight efficient maritime routes

Different models reveal distinct aspects of ancient networks

Abstract

In this article we examine a variety of quantitative models for describing archaeological networks, with particular emphasis on the maritime networks of the Aegean Middle Bronze Age. In particular, we discriminate between those gravitational networks that are most likely (maximum entropy) and most efficient (best cost/benefit outcomes).