Archaeologists Quote by Douglas Preston
““In the twentieth century the Mormon Church sent a number of well-funded archaeologists to Mexico and Central America to try to confirm the stories through site excavations. Although this resulted in valuable, high-quality research, it also proved difficult for the scientists themselves; facing clear evidence that disproved the Mormon view of history, some of the archaeologists ended up losing their faith, and a few of those who voiced their doubts were excommunicated.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Lost City of Z by David Grann, 2009
Archaeologists funded by a religious group faced evidence contradicting that group's history, leading some to lose faith and face excommunication.
In simple terms: Researchers struggled when findings conflicted with doctrine, causing personal crises.
Key Takeaway
Be prepared for evidence that challenges beliefs.
Themes
faith
science
conflict
institution
personal crisis
Mood
conflicted
reflective
serious
Type
analytical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- academic research
- religious study
- personal decision making
- faith crises
Key Concepts
cognitive dissonance
institutional pressure
truth seeking
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you reconcile conflicting evidence with core beliefs?
- What support systems help when faith is challenged?
A Different Perspective
Evidence can clash with deeply held beliefs, causing emotional turmoil.
![“[Agatha Christie] is fond of quoting the witty wife who once said, 'an archaeologist is the best husband any woman can have; the older she gets, the more interested he is in her. Christie's husband, Max Mallowan, was an archaeologist.” quote by Nigel Dennis](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/058/nigel-dennis-24689_archaeologists_agatha-christie-is-fond-of-quoting-the-w_441066.jpg)
