Abstract

Space syntax is a theoretical approach for understanding how the structure of 'inhabited space' (buildings, settlements) shapes and is shaped by patterns of human movement and social interaction. Archaeologists have been attracted to space syntax analysis because it provides a methodology for examining how human societies use space as an essential resource in organizing people and their activities. These methods involve mathematical and graph-based techniques that allow the researcher to describe, compare, and analyze the spatial configuration of houses, towns, and cities. The majority of archaeologists using space syntax analysis have tended to rely on theories and techniques developed over 20 years ago in the book "The Social Logic of Space" by Bill Hillier and Julienne Hanson. However, many significant advances in space syntax theory and computer software have occurred since this time. The purpose of this paper is to review these developments and suggest ways that they can be used in the spatial analysis of archaeological data sets.