Indigenous Peoples and Globalization
M 12:20-2:50.
A. Gonzales. Fall.

This seminar critically examined processes of globalization and their impact on Indigenous peoples worldwide. Processes of globalization, whether under the auspices of the World Trade Organization (WTO), regional economic agreements such as the Free Trade Agreement of the Americas (FTAA), or advances in technological, trade and travel, pose a serious challenge to indigenous peoples livelihood and lifestyle. In an increasingly globalized and interconnected world, Indigenous peoples sit on the frontlines of globalization’s expansion. For some, globalization is seen as a source of empowerment and opportunity for indigenous peoples to more fully integrate themselves into the world economy. For others, globalization and the expansion of western markets and cultures threatens the very survival of indigenous peoples and cultures. To examine both sides of the debate, this seminar takes an interdisciplinary approach, examining cases and ideas presented in works of sociology, political economy, and cultural studies in order to critically examine the political, economic, cultural, and societal affects of globalization on Indigenous peoples living in an increasingly interconnected world.