ASB 223:KennewickMan Activity Balancing the Interests of Different Publics In this assignment, you will consider the problems sometimes faced by archaeologists who must balance the interests that different publics have in their work. You should also

ASB 223:KennewickMan Activity

Balancing the Interests of Different Publics

In this assignment, you will consider the problems sometimes faced by archaeologists who must balance the interests that different publics have in their work. You should also get an understanding of the feelings of the communities that have ties to the cultures studied by archaeologists. You will have some articles to read on the internet and we will watched a video. Using this information, write a typed, double-spaced response on the topic described below. There are no “correct” answers to these questions; however, you must SUPPORT your position by reference to the materials you have read, the video, and discussion in class. This assignment is worth 10 points.

READINGS:

There are two main web sites for you to review:

http://www.washington.edu/burkemuseum/kman/

On this web site, go to “Trace the Story.” From there, read all the sections on the left side of the page which are part of the Kennewick Man Virtual Exhibit: Introduction, Chronology of Events, Who are the Native Americans, Idea of Race, Native American Views, Anthropologist’s Views, and News Update.

www.cr.nps.gov/archeology/kennewick

The first web site is the on-line exhibit at theBurkeMuseumwhich now houses theKennewickskeleton. Review these web sites.

TOPIC: In your opinion, should Kennewick Man be studied? Why do you think this? Contrast both sides of the argument: the anthropologist interested in the scientific value and the Native American perspective where the argument for repatriation is felt from the heart. Can these positions be reconciled?

Some possible issues to explore in your response could include: Do you think he should, in fact, be considered “Native American” or not? What do you think of the idea of race? Compare and contrast the Native American and Anthropologist’s views. Should he be protected by NAGPRA? Should he be studied at all? How can the interests of Native Americans, archaeologists, and the general public be balanced, if at all?