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Constellations of indigeneity: The power of definition

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Contemporary Political Theory Aims and scope

Abstract

Lack of attention to definitions of indigeneity is a problem in both political theory and practice. Defining indigeneity has at least two important consequences: (a) it affects who has access to resources or rights reserved for Indigenous peoples; and (b) it shapes the kinds of privileges and resources available to Indigenous peoples. In this article, I draw on Theodor Adorno’s concept of ‘nonidentity’ as a resource for exploring the power and limits of conceptions of indigeneity. I argue that recognizing the non-identical aspects of indigeneity enables critical engagement with constellations of concepts that attend to the distinctive aspects of indigeneity in particular moments and locations. To illustrate my argument, I draw on one conception of indigeneity that could be characterized as non-identity thinking – a research approach called Kaupapa Māori. I suggest that non-identity is a promising resource for conceptualizing indigeneity as it has potential to respond to some of the key problems with current responses to indigeneity; notably, that universal definitions may not best represent what it means to be Indigenous, and that unreflective acceptance of current definitions fails to produce just outcomes.

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Acknowledgements

Many thanks to my advisors and colleagues who provided valuable feedback on earlier versions of this article, including Lawrie Balfour, Colin Bird, Jennifer Rubenstein, Jeffrey Olick, Kate Schick, Greta Snyder, and Denise Walsh. I am also grateful to the anonymous reviewers and editors at Contemporary Political Theory for their thoughtful engagement and constructive comments.

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  1. Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, 6140, New Zealand

    Claire Timperley

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Timperley, C. Constellations of indigeneity: The power of definition. Contemp Polit Theory 19, 38–60 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1057/s41296-019-00334-y

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