Artifacts and Ethics by Priya Reddy

Artifacts and Ethics explores the complex moral issues surrounding cultural artifacts, focusing on ownership, repatriation, and ethical acquisition. The book argues for ethical considerations to be central in decisions about artifacts. It balances cultural heritage preservation with the rights of source communities, challenging Western-centric views. For instance, it examines how colonial history has shaped current museum collections, creating power imbalances that led to the removal of artifacts from their original locations. It also highlights the importance of understanding cultural property rights in a global context where social justice and human rights are paramount.

The book begins by giving a historical context, then introduces ethical frameworks like deontology and utilitarianism to analyze the roles of museums, source communities, collectors, and governments. It looks at the history of collecting and its impact, the legal landscape, and the ethical dilemmas museums face. It uses historical documents, legal cases, and ethnographic studies to provide a comprehensive view.

The book aims to create a dialogue between museums and source communities and offers guidance for ethical policies and advocacy. It's a valuable resource for anyone interested in the ethical dimensions of cultural heritage, from students to policymakers.