Anthropological ethics

by | Mar 8, 2023 | anthropology

 

Using your understanding of anthropological ethics, how would you treat the following situation? Dr. Jones, Curator for the Museum of Western Stuff, has been asked to review a collection of pottery being considered for acquisition. The potential donor, who understands that his entire collection will not be exhibited at any one time, has made it a condition that the entire collection be accepted and retained in the Museum collections as a unit. Dr. Jones has examined the collection and has made two significant observations: (1) the collection is of tremendous research importance and would complement and benefit the Museum’s existing collections, and (2) there are certain pieces in the collection that are identical to pottery that has been repatriated to American Indian groups in the state under conditions of the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act. Should Dr. Jones accept the collections under the conditions of the donor, knowing that portions of the collection “might” be subjected to repatriation? Your reflection should include your thoughts and feelings as well as the specific ethical standards that support your beliefs. If there is information that gives you pause or makes you reconsider, include that too as well as why you chose your position regardless of that information.

 

 

 

Sample Solution

In this situation, I believe that Dr. Jones should not accept the collection under the conditions of the donor due to ethical considerations associated with repatriation. While it is understandable that the donor wants his entire collection to be accepted and retained as a unit, there are valid concerns surrounding cultural artifact repatriation which must be addressed first. According to standards established by anthropological ethics such as Principle 1 of The American Anthropological

Sample Solution

In this situation, I believe that Dr. Jones should not accept the collection under the conditions of the donor due to ethical considerations associated with repatriation. While it is understandable that the donor wants his entire collection to be accepted and retained as a unit, there are valid concerns surrounding cultural artifact repatriation which must be addressed first. According to standards established by anthropological ethics such as Principle 1 of The American Anthropological

Association’s Code of Ethics (AAA), “Anthropologists recognize and respect the distinctive ways people think about their lives, and strive to avoid imposing their own values on others.” This means that when considering artifacts from indigenous populations, anthropologists must ensure they are being returned in a respectful manner and with careful consideration for how they were originally acquired. Furthermore, Principle 7 states that “When conducting research or providing services for specific communities or organizations involving Native American remains or gravesite materials…anthropologists adhere to applicable laws” including NAGPRA.

Given these requirements set forth by AAA guidelines and NAGPRA regulations, I feel strongly that accepting a collection like this would go against ethical principles since some pieces may have been acquired unlawfully or without proper consent; in addition it could also potentially lead to further disrespecting of native cultures if items were handled carelessly after being accepted into Museum collections.

Although accepting this particular collection might seem tempting due its research potential, ultimately I believe its important for Dr. Jones uphold standards set forth by AAA guidelines in order safeguard against any issues related to cultural appropriation or unethical practices regarding repatriation.

This question has been answered.

Get Answer