This book addresses the problems concerning the research of Stone Age surface scatters in the Northern Netherlands (provinces of Groningen, Drenthe and Friesland). Research methods are presented which can be used to assess these scatters within the realm of archaeological heritage management and suggestions are made with regard to knowledge hiatus and future research opportunities.Due to the large number of scatters, poor conservation, lack of visibility in the landscape and disturbed context these sites can often be overlooked. Nowadays, the majority of archaeological research is performed within the context of archaeological heritage management where, besides scientific, socio-economic motives also play a role. A major part of this book is focused on ways in which these scatters can be investigated within the context of archaeological heritage management.In this thesis the use of a landscape approach is advocated for an effective study of early prehistoric communities. This means that the intrinsic characteristics of the surface scatters should be supplemented with information on landforms and palaeo-ecological data from the surrounding areas. By using such an approach a more thorough image of Stone Age communities can be presented.

The use of flint is uniquely interlinked with the history of mankind. In the evolving relationship between humanity and the natural world, the provenance of flint as a resource is, arguably, unparalleled. Its continuing use today is simply another link in a long chain of association that can swiftly transport the craftsman back to his ancient ancestors. In historical terms, humans were relatively quick to discover the usefulness and versatility of flint. It offered itself up readily, rising to the surface of the land. But perhaps part of the enduring fascination we have for flint is that it does not easily give up its secrets. Building with Flint is not only a comprehensive exploration of the history of flint and its traditional uses, properties and applications, but is also an invaluable practical guide for practitioners currently working in the professions of construction, architecture and design. As well as providing detailed insight and advice about good practice in flint work, it also inspires the reader to employ flint in innovative and versatile ways. In addition, this book is for anyone who is simply curious to unearth more about this versatile material and all its quirks and nuances.

"This study analyzes New Theses (Shinron) by Aizawa Seishisai (1781–1863) and its contribution to Japanese political thought and policy during the early–modern era. New Theses is found to be indispensable to our understanding of Japan’s transformation from a feudal to a modern state. Focusing on Aizawa, Bob Wakabayashi traces the development of xenophobia during the Tokugawa period and examines the basis of anti-Western sentiment. He shows how knowledge of Christianity inspired Aizawa to develop the potent concept of kokutai (“what is essential to a nation”). His analysis explains why the Edobakufu’s policies of national isolation (sakoku) and armed expulsion of Westerners (jōi) gained widespread support in the late Tokugawa. Wakabayashi also describes how information on Western affairs and world conditions decisively altered Tokugawa Confucian conceptions of civilization and barbarism, and how this in turn enabled the Japanese to redefine their nation’s relationship to China and the West. Rather than place Aizawa and his New Theses of 1825 at the beginning of a process leading up to the Meiji Restoration, Wakabayashi discusses New Theses in conjunction with the bakufu’s Expulsion Edict issued in the same year. He concludes that the convergence of the two events in 1825 marks the emergence of modern nationalism in Japan, and therefore should perhaps be seen as more epoch–making than the 1868 Restoration itself. The study also presents a complete translation of New Theses."