Archaeological Theory and the Politics of Cultural Heritage

Laurajane Smith's controversial new book gives lucid appraisals of key debates such as NAGPRA, Kennewick, and the repatriation of Tasmanian artifacts show how indigenous communities in the US and Australia have confronted the pre-eminence of archaeological theory and discourse in the way the material remains of their past are cared for and controlled, and how this has challenged traditional archaeological thought and practice. This is a much-needed survey of how relationships between indigenous peoples and the archaeological establishment have got into difficulties, and a pointer towards how things could move forward. It will be essential reading for those concerned with developing a just and equal dialogue with indigenous peoples about the role of archaeology in the research and management of their heritage.

Laurajane Smith is Lecturer in Cultural Heritage Studies and Archaeology at the University of York, UK.