Philosophy Program and The Art History Program Presents
Repatriation and the Radical Redistribution of Art
Monday, April 3, 2017
Reem-Kayden Center Laszlo Z. Bito '60 Auditorium
4:45 pm EDT/GMT-4
Erich Matthes4:45 pm EDT/GMT-4
Assistant Professor of Philosophy
Wellesley College
Museums are home to millions of artworks and cultural artifacts, some of which have made their way to these institutions through unjust means. In this talk, I consider a range of arguments in favor of the repatriation of art (the return of artworks to their country of origin), and discuss some of their apparent limitations. In particular, repatriation, even if justified, is often portrayed as contrary to the aims and values of museums. However, I argue that some of the very considerations museums appeal to in order to oppose repatriation claims can be turned on their heads and marshaled in favor of the practice. In addition to defending against objections to repatriation, this argument yields the surprising conclusion that the redistribution of cultural goods should be much more radical than is typically supposed.
For more information, call 845-758-7393, or e-mail [email protected].
Time: 4:45 pm EDT/GMT-4
Location: Reem-Kayden Center Laszlo Z. Bito '60 Auditorium