Squid Tempest wrote:
I know this has all been covered before, but I really don't think metal detecting can possibly be a good thing, no matter how many artifacts are unearthed by it. In fact, the more things that are found, the more our historical heritage is destroyed. By taking finds from their original setting without a proper archeological dig is just appalling. It really should be illegal.
By answering Scubi's post it was not my intention to open a can of worms. Speaking personally, I would have absolutely no desire to become a detectorist and the ones in the BBC clip seem little better than the gangs that go around nicking lead from from church roofs under the cover of darkness (perhaps worse in the view of some).On the other hand when artifacts are found that helps us know more about the craftmanship and skill from a time when writing was not in use (as far as we know) then I cannot help but feel something of a thrill.
It all comes down to a strict code of ethics and education of the general public about the harm that they can do (I didn't know until reading some of the posts here). Unfortunately we can't legislate for criminal activity.
