Political Theory and the Rights of Indigenous Peoples

This 2001 book focuses on the problem of justice for indigenous peoples and the ways in which this poses key questions for political theory: the nature of sovereignty, the grounds of national identity and the limits of democratic theory. It includes chapters by leading political theorists and indigenous scholars from Australia, Aotearoa/New Zealand, Canada and the United States. One of the strengths of this book is the manner in which it shows how the different historical circumstances of colonization in these countries nevertheless raise common problems and questions for political theory. It examines ways in which political theory has contributed to the past subjugation and continuing disadvantage faced by indigenous peoples, while also seeking to identify resources in contemporary political thought that can assist the 'decolonisation' of relations between indigenous and non-indigenous peoples.

'In a short review I can only hint at the riches of a book that both exhibits and challenges the many different ways that we can reflect theoretically on the indigenous project to assert and review their jurisdictions. For thinking about Australia, it offers the stimuli of theory and of comparative history. The standard of writing is clear throughout, and the editors' introduction offers a clear view, not binding on any reader, of its main concerns.' Tim Rose, Centre of Aboriginal Economic Policy Research, 'This volume … offers a comprehensive account of the cutting edge of scholarship within the field.' Canadian Journal of Sociology, '… a most valuable, innovative and comprehensive contribution to highly complex and challenging issues. Scholars, students, government representatives, policy makers and all those involved in and concerned by indigenous issues and empowerment will find in this collective work an impetus to think and act on new and more equitable grounds and values.' Sylvie Poirier, Université Laval, 'This is a thought-provoking volume … Its stated objective is to foster an 'intercultural conversation between indigenous and non-indigenous theorists' and in this regard it is a model for others to follow.' Contemporary Political Theory