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I analyze the logic of certain arguments from the aboriginal rights movement ("aboriginalism") directed against the Western academy. Some emphasis is placed on the New Zealand Maori who drove many megafauna species into extinction well before the advent of European colonialism in the islands. I argue that the efforts of the indigenous oppressed there and elsewhere to preserve and advance indigenous culture are hindered by the idealization of native life ways, particularly as they existed prehistorically. Further damage to the aboriginal rights movement, I maintain, is done by the representation of Westerners as monolithic and inhuman oppressors. While grievous errors of both thought and deed have been committed by the West, I caution against confusing these errors for a present incapacity for clear, objective study. I argue that in fact efforts of the indigenous oppressed to preserve and advance their cultures stand to gain valuable assistance from the Western academy. At the same time, following Mill, I repeat the call to ensure that the voices of oppressed indigenous peoples are heard. Lastly, I urge all concerned parties to observe a principle of good faith. Academics and activists alike should recognize the humanity in each other and work to promote and preserve it in both.

DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4614-1065-2_18

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