Kwame Anthony Appiah

Definition

Kwame Anthony Appiah is a Ghanaian-British philosopher, cultural theorist, and author known for his work in ethics, political philosophy, and cultural studies. His contributions to the debates surrounding identity, cosmopolitanism, and the ethics of collecting are particularly significant in discussions of repatriation and the moral responsibilities of museums and collectors.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Appiah argues that cultural artifacts should be viewed as part of a global heritage, which raises questions about ownership and responsibility in collecting practices.
2. He emphasizes the need for museums and institutions to engage with the communities from which artifacts originate, promoting dialogue and understanding.
3. In his writings, Appiah critiques the idea of cultural purity, suggesting that cultures are always in flux and influenced by one another.
4. His concept of 'rooted cosmopolitanism' advocates for local identities while recognizing global interconnectedness, which informs discussions on repatriation.
5. Appiah's work highlights the moral implications of collecting practices, encouraging a reevaluation of how institutions acquire and display cultural artifacts.

Review Questions

• How does Appiah's concept of cosmopolitanism influence the discussion around the ethics of collecting cultural artifacts?
  • Appiah's cosmopolitanism emphasizes global interconnectedness and shared moral responsibilities, which challenges traditional views on ownership of cultural artifacts. He argues that collectors and museums have ethical obligations to consider the origins and significance of items they hold. This perspective encourages institutions to collaborate with source communities and rethink their roles in preserving cultural heritage.
• What role does Appiah believe community engagement plays in the repatriation debates surrounding cultural artifacts?
  • Appiah believes that community engagement is essential for ethical repatriation practices. He argues that museums should not only return artifacts but also foster relationships with the communities from which these items originate. This collaboration can help in understanding cultural significance, ensuring that repatriation is meaningful rather than merely symbolic.
• Evaluate how Appiah's views on cultural identity challenge conventional narratives in postcolonial discourse regarding artifact ownership.
  • Appiah's views on cultural identity challenge conventional narratives by asserting that cultures are dynamic and interrelated rather than fixed or isolated. His argument against cultural purity highlights how colonial histories have influenced contemporary understandings of ownership. By advocating for a more nuanced approach to identity that includes both local roots and global connections, Appiah encourages a reassessment of who has the right to claim ownership over cultural artifacts.

Related terms

Cosmopolitanism: A philosophical perspective that emphasizes the importance of global citizenship and moral obligations that extend beyond local or national affiliations.

Repatriation: The process of returning cultural artifacts or human remains to their country of origin or rightful owners, often involving ethical considerations about ownership and cultural heritage.

Cultural Imperialism: The imposition of a dominant culture's values and practices over others, often leading to the marginalization of local cultures and traditions.