Native American DNA : tribal belonging and the false promise of genetic science /

TallBear (Univ. of Texas, Austin) provides an anthropological and Native American perspective of the interplay between DNA testing and multiple views of Native American tribal identity and status. The author critiques "direct to consumer" genotyping companies, private molecular genealogists, and National Geographic's Genographic Project. Although she provides unflattering assessments of these groups, her criticisms are essential reading for anyone working in these areas. Tallbear (a member of the Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate) offers Native American alternatives to the Euro-American perspectives on human molecular population genetics/anthropology. Much of her analysis is from the position of a research subject and victim of testing, rather than a scientist. Unfortunately, Tallbear's critiques are frequently statements on broad swaths of science and society, supported by few data points. Many of her arguments take on the tenor of jargon-filled polemics. However, her conclusion is not in this mold; it is an insightful, balanced analysis of concerns and opportunities for indigenous peoples, scientists, and policy makers. The book's strengths include a good alternative viewpoint for human population geneticists and generally good referencing. Drawbacks are a sometimes strident, personal tone and the use of jargon in the text. Summing Up: Recommended. Upper-division undergraduates, graduate students, and researchers/faculty. R. M. Denome Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences