Additional Information

Available Through

CambridgeCore

Language

English

Notes

Abstract: Recent methodological advances have increased the pace and scale of African ancient DNA (aDNA) research, inciting a rush to sample broadly from museum collections, and raising ethical concerns over the destruction of human remains. In the absence of discipline-wide protocols, teams are often left to navigate aDNA sampling on an individual basis, contributing to widely varying practices that do not always protect the long-term integrity of collections. As those on the frontline, archaeologists and curators must create and adhere to best practices. We review ethical issues particular to African aDNA contexts and suggest protocols with the aim of initiating public discussion.

Keywords: Sub-Saharan Africa, archaeogenetics, human remains, destructive analysis,

museum studies

Taxonomies

RPA Codes & Standards

• Adequate Preparation for Research Projects
• Appropriate Dissemination of Research
• Archaeologist's Responsibility to Colleagues, Employees, and Students
• Archaeologist's Responsibility to the Public
• Integrity of Research Methodology
• Maintaining Continuity of Records
• Specimen and Research Record Storage

CIfA Codes

• Principle 1: Adherence to ethical and responsible behaviour in archaeological affairs
• Principle 2: Responsibility for the conservation of the historic environment
• Principle 3: Responsibility for acquiring and recording reliable information of the past in archaeological research
• Principle 4: Responsibility for the availability of archaeological results within reasonable dispatch
• Principle 5: Recognition of aspirations of employees, colleagues and helpers in all matters of employment

Keywords & Terms

• Accountability
• Adequate and Responsible Reporting, Publication, and Dissemination
• Adequate Preparation
• Burials and Human Remains
• Conservation
• Continuity of Records
• General Archaeological Ethics
• Integrity of Research Methodology and Field Procedures
• Management of Cultural Resources, Heritage, History
• Museum, Collection, Curation and Display Standards
• Permissions
• Preservation of Archaeological Resources
• Professional Standards
• Respect for and Responsibility to Affected Groups
• Standards of Data Collection, Recordation, Analysis
• Standards of Training and Student/Teacher Responsibilities
• Storage of Data, Specimens, and Records

Topics & Issues

• Archaeological Education
• Archaeological Ethics - Other
• Biological Anthropology/Archaeology
• Conservation and Ethics
• Destruction of Cultural Heritage
• Ethical Dilemmas
• Ethical Responsibilities of Archaeologists
• Human Remains and Ethical Practice
• Interpreting the Past
• Museum and Display Ethics
• Professionalism and Professional Standards