UCLA

The intricate and multifaceted relationship humans share with ownership, whether tangible or intangible, forms the crux of this research. The first chapter investigates the psychology behind the concept of ownership. The universality of first mover norms in ownership, where the first person or the one exerting more effort is seen as the owner, is examined. Through a comparative study between the Achuar adults in Ecuador and an online U.S. sample, it is found that while there is a general lean towards first possessor intuitions, these norms may be more contextually and culturally variable than previously believed. The second chapter delves into the contentious realm of ownership and Intellectual Property (IP). By examining public attitudes across 12 societies spanning 10 countries, the research highlights how these perceptions align or diverge from legal frameworks. The findings illuminate that individuals tend to attribute higher ownership rights to knowledge when it has an innovative origin, revealing a nuanced understanding of what qualifies as "ownable." The final chapter ethnographically anchors this research in an Achuar community, spotlighting the tussle between tradition and modernity in knowledge dissemination and control. As traditional knowledge oscillates between private to public spaces, challenges around intellectual boundaries, authenticity, and commodification arise. The role of technology, both as an enabler and disruptor, further adds complexity to the narrative. The Achuar community's journey exemplifies the broader challenges faced by Indigenous communities globally, as they negotiate identity, sovereignty, and the ethical distribution of knowledge in the digital age. Collectively, this dissertation underscores the need to utilize an anthropological approach to appreciate the dynamic nature of ownership and its profound implications on identity, culture, and legalities in contemporary society.