The legacy of Darrell Posey: from ethnobiological research among the Kayapó to the protection of indigenous knowledge

Abstract

Darrell Posey (1947-2001) made his mayor ethnobiological studies between Mebêngôkre-Kayapó, a Jê speaking people who inhabits territories officially recognized by Brazilian State in the region of the upper and middle Xingú river. Based on the analysis of Posey's work on the Kayapó; on documentary research in the Guilherme de La Penha Archives, in the Goeldi Museum; and on testimonies of indigenous people and researchers who were his colleagues in this institution, the article discusses the scientific and political legacy of Posey, considering his contributions to ethnobiology and current discussions on the protection of traditional knowledge.

Keywords

• Darrell Posey
• Ethnobiology
• Indigenous knowledge
• Intellectual Property Rights
• Mebêngôkre-Kayapó
• Xingu River