A team of researchers explains historical, cultural, and ethical issues they considered while developing a 3D scan of a South African site.
A multidisciplinary team of researchers explains historical, cultural, and ethical issues they considered while developing a 3D scan of a South African site to be shared with the world online.
One criticism of current 3D models of archaeological sites is that they are devoid of human traces and history. The pursuit of objectivity in scientific endeavors is the norm. But in using 3D technology—making decisions about site boundaries, what is cleaned from the model, and the chosen level of detail—a subjective filter is introduced. The omission of human usage and cultural traces renders these representations static and sterile.
These narratives contributed to the places acquiring a frightening reputation. Interestingly, the secrecy surrounding the locations dissuades many in the community from visiting them, though the sites have been used for various initiation rituals. And today, the landscapes at Ga-Mohana Hill are used by church groups and other community members for spiritual communion and prayer sessions.