A METER deep?

It is ironic that normative rules of what archaeological salvage should be do not seem to apply in this instance. In the U.S., when public lands are impacted by even contemplated development or other actions, various and sundry regulations and laws are activated and everything from plant and animals species, recreational values, archaeology and paleontology are reviewed even to the extent of conductiong field studies and surveys. In some instances 100% archaeological surveys are required in regions where the liklihood of discovering anything significant is remote. In the instance of the temple Mount, one would safetly assume that every spoonful of earth excavated has the potential for something that would impact archaeological and historical understanding of the site. But perhaps that is the point that the Muslim officials well understand. Aren't these the heirs to those folks who decided that the great library at Alexandria contained nothing of worth, and all that was of worth was in the Koran, thus justifying the burning of the infidel library.

I notice Mosque officials repeatedly say they do no damage. Note that they always can dismiss the entire word of Jewish archaeologists.

Science of course must cross boundaries of religion and politics and provide the best available methods. Unfortunately, issues become dominated by politics or religion and science is ignored. The Temple Mount situation ignores scientific common sense because of politics and religion. More seriously it reflects an amazing ignorance in the Moslem world by dictum and perception despite what the science says should be done. This ignorance is of course not limited to Moslems and can be found elsewhere, but there are fewer remedies to an ignorance rampant in the Moslem world simply because remedies are not tolerated and those speaking out can find their death as a real response. It is very sad and speaks badly for the future.