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CS92PROD
Who Owns the Past? Cultural Heritage, Archaeology, and Politics
ARCP 248
Spring 2025
Section: 01  

Cultural heritage is defined by UNESCO as the tangible and intangible attributes of a group or society that are inherited from past generations, which should be preserved and maintained for future generations. In practice, this is maintained through the archaeological, historical, and legal practice of cultural resource management (CRM). While many think of archaeology as a purely academic field, archaeologists are largely employed outside of the "Ivory Tower" in this rapidly growing industry. This course will explore how this industry is practiced in the United States and abroad, and its role in preserving heritage. This course will also introduce students to the wider world of cultural heritage studies. Along with the practice of protecting cultural resources, we will explore the ethics of managing the past and the legal frameworks that govern cultural heritage. Students will also consider the effects of colonialism, nationalism, armed conflict, climate change, uncontrolled development, and illicit trade on cultural heritage and group identity. Further, students will engage with current debates about ownership of cultural heritage and responsibility around its management.
Credit: 1 Gen Ed Area Dept: SBS ARCP
Course Format: SeminarGrading Mode: Graded
Level: UGRD Prerequisites: None
Fulfills a Requirement for: (ARCP-MN)(ARCP)
Past Enrollment Probability: Not Available

Last Updated on NOV-21-2024
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