Rethinking Heritage in Precarious Times: Coloniality, Climate Change, and Covid-19

Rethinking Heritage in Precarious Times sets a fresh agenda for Heritage Studies by reflecting upon the unprecedented nature of the contemporary moment. In doing so, the volume also calls into question established ideas, ways of working, and understandings of the future.

Presenting contributions by leading figures in the field of Heritage Studies, Indigenous scholars, and scholars from across the global north and global south, the volume engages with the most pressing issues of today. Considering the impact of climate change, chapters re-imagine museums for climate action, explore the notion of a world heritage for the Anthropocene, and reflect on heritage and posthumanism. Drawing inspiration from the global demonstrations against racism, police violence and authoritarianism, the book explores the notion of a people's heritage, draws on local and Indigenous conceptualizations to lay out a notion of heritage in the service of social justice and restitution, and details the precariousness of universities and heritage institutions. Analysing the ongoing impact of the coronavirus pandemic, chapters also explore the changing nature of life under lockdown, describe the effects on communities, and reflect on the ensuing transformations in heritage and conservation.

Rethinking Heritage in Precarious Times demonstrates that we need the deep-time perspective that Heritage Studies offers, as well as the sense of a transgenerational conversation that engages past, present and future. It will be essential reading for academics and students engaged in the study of heritage, anthropology, memory, history and geography.