I see an analogy between cross cultural borrowing, and scholarship. If one is writing a paper, one makes an effort to cite the source of an idea, or information. If one quotes, one makes sure to quote exactly. It is not appropriate to distort what another writer has written in order to make polemic. And if the other writer has expressly forbidden the use of his/her words, it is considered unethical to use those words in one's paper. Most writers agree, and vigorously defend their copy-write.
The Hopi do not want any one using their ceremonies. The Cherokee say you are welcome to incorporate some of practices, but do it with respect. The Reform Jews say learn from us, but do not do our ceremonies out of context. Orthodox and Conservative Jews are insulted by non Jews doing Jewish things.
At the Super Bowl 2005 there was a program of dancers in what appeared to be native Americans fashion, doing a modern dance, dressed in totally green lycra...save for the head dresses, that is an example of distortion and misuse of Native cultural ways .
This is a summer rerun from a post of November 2005
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