What do we value about the past? In formulating policies about heritage preservation, that is the inevitable question, and deals not only with economic value but also the intangible value to individuals, communities and society as a whole. This interdisciplinary group of scholars--anthropologists, archaeologists, architects, educators, lawyers, heritage administrators, policy analysts, and consultants--make the first attempt to define and assess heritage values on a local, national and global level. Chapters range from the theoretical to policy frameworks to case studies of heritage practice, written by scholars from eight countries.

What do we value about the past? In formulating policies about heritage preservation, that is the inevitable question, and deals not only with economic value but also the intangible value to individuals, communities and society as a whole. This interdisciplinary group of scholarsaanthropologists, archaeologists, architects, educators, lawyers, heritage administrators, policy analysts, and consultantsamake the first attempt to define and assess heritage values on a local, national and global level. Chapters range from the theoretical to policy frameworks to case studies of heritage practice, written by scholars from eight countries.

The Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA) has brought into sharp relief the conflicts among public and private collectors, scholars, and indigenous peoples over the provenience and disposition of cultural property, especially archaeological remains. First published in 1989 and now updated and enlarged, this book explores the ethical, legal, and intellectual issues related to excavating, selling, collecting, and owning cultural artefacts. Twenty-two contributors, representing archaeology, law, museum administration, art history, and philosophy, suggest how the numerous interested groups, often at odds, can co-operate to resolve cultural heritage, ownership, and repatriation issues and improve the protection of cultural property world-wide. A new preface and epilogue frame the contemporary debate in a global perspective. The editor provides updated information about domestic and international laws and regulations and enforcement institutions.

The history of Pre-Columbian collecting is a social and aesthetic history--of ideas, people and organizations, and objects. This richly illustrated volume examines these histories by considering the collection and display of Pre-Columbian objects in Europe, Latin America, and the United States. Some of the thirteen essays locate the collecting process within its broader cultural setting in order to explain how and why such collections were formed, while others consider how collections have served as documents of culture within the disciplines of archaeology and anthropology, and as objects of fine art or aesthetic statements within the art and art historical worlds. Nearly all contemplate how such collections have been used as active signifiers of political, economic, and cultural power. The thirteen essays were originally presented at a symposium commemorating the fiftieth anniversary of the Pre-Columbian Collection at Dumbarton Oaks. They continue to be groundbreaking contributions to the histories of collecting and Pre-Columbian art.

"Scholars seeking a survey of the current status of national cultural heritage and cultural property legislation and regulations need look no further. "Cultural Heritage Management" brings together a worldwide selection of experts to explore both how--and how successfully--different nations deal with the past."--Alex W. Barker, University of Missouri, Columbia

"Represents a valuable contribution to the field of heritage studies. Taking a global perspective, it raises issues of significant concern to heritage practitioners and scholars alike."--John Carman, University of Birmingham, UK

Even as places and objects that have particular cultural significance are increasingly valued in our global world, powerful forces threaten them with destruction. "Cultural Heritage Management "discusses the efforts of a broad range of contributors devoted to safeguarding our cultural heritage.

Editors Phyllis Mauch Messenger and George Smith have brought together an international group of contributors, featuring archaeologists, anthropologists, development specialists, and others engaged in the study, management, protection, and interpretation of places and objects that represent histories, traditions, and cultural identities.

From international law to artifact preservation to site interpretation, there is a wide variety of approaches to the management of our cultural heritage. Combining the voices of scholars and practitioners, the book provides a much-needed diversity of voices and perspectives from people steeped in the issues that directly affect the future of the past.