ANT 430 - Who Owns Native Cultures?

The answer to the simple question of who owns Native American / American Indian / indigenous cultures and cultural productions is surprisingly complex and engages the history of anthropology and the nature of anthropological knowledge itself. Course examines the evolving relationships between anthropologists, historians, and other researchers with indigenous peoples (in particular American Indians) and what kinds of ethical and legal relationships have evolved over time to address this question. Also looks at the ways in which contemporary cultural resource management by indigenous peoples serves as a key articulation of indigenous nationhood and sovereignty. Special attention is given to recent scholarship by indigenous researchers that decolonizes standard academic practices and roots the ownership of Native cultures and research in Native communities.

Prerequisites: ANT 102 or NAS 101 or permission

Course Typically Offered: Alternate Years

Credits: 3