Weighing the value of repatriation against future scientific research

Abstract How are museum objects valued and who decides? This commentary explores the relationship of perceived scientific value to the idea of hoarding applied to colonial institutions' holdings. By juxtaposing the possibilities of future scientific value with the value that these objects (primarily bodies) have held and still hold to their respective communities, I ask whose perception of value matters when it comes to deciding on what (or whom) stays in these collections.