John Schofield's new book Wicked problems for archaeologists: heritage as transformative practice was prompted by Oxford professor Shadreck Chirikure's intriguing question: “Why is it that archaeology—a discipline that deals with human experience over the long term—is failing to achieve its potential in tackling global challenges?” (p.259). Schofield's discussion and answer to this question reflects a view that is rather innovative, and it constitutes a watershed for archaeology and cultural heritage.