Materialità, incantamento e bias. Verso un uso consapevole dell’IA in archeologia.

The rise of AI in archaeology merges algorithmic and material aspects, forming a complex mega-machine reliant on industrial infrastructure, labour, and resources. This materiality shapes a global landscape marked by inequalities and colonial legacies. Creating training datasets involves political and cultural choices, shaping AI’s worldview and biases. AI’s increasing role shifts archaeology from automation to interpretation, urging critical awareness to avoid perpetuating biases. Archaeologists must engage in philosophical reflection and narrative praxis to retain control over archaeological discourse, mindful of ethical responsibilities and potential harm. Ultimately, AI’s role in archaeology demands careful consideration of its impacts, including financial, environmental, and human costs. AI research in archaeology should prioritise people, embracing a broad perspective on how AI can affect human lives while remaining vigilant against potential risks and ethical considerations.