There is a growing awareness of both the destruction of the earth's forests and their importance for all people on the planet. Most attention to date, however, has been focused on the destruction of the forest - its scope and causes - and the genetic and biotic value of the tropical forests. The demise of indigenous people is mentioned in passing, usually without reference to specific groups, although the discovery of the Tasaday is sometimes cited as an example of how totally isolated peoples can still be discovered in the rainforests. Some concerned writers suggest that indigenous peoples can help us learn about what is in tropical forests as well as efficient forms of management. To date, however, little is known about how many tribal people or ethnic minorities even live in tropical forest areas, let alone what they know of the forests or how they utilize them. This issue of the Quarterly explores the scope and nature of deforestation in the tropics. It also examines these issues in light of specific groups of indigenous peoples throughout the world. Finally many of the articles discuss in detail indigenous systems of forest management which, with more study, will prove useful in establishing ecologically sound management systems throughout the world. Individuals or organizations are invited to contribute articles of about five pages for publication in future issues of the Quarterly. In addition to articles of general interest, the next three issues of the Quarterly will focus on the following topics as they relate to tribal societies and ethnic minorities. TOPIC DATE FOR SUBMISSION Tourism 1 August 1982 The Sale of Primitive Art 1 October 1982 Satellite and Mass Communications 1 January 1983 Longer papers or collections of essays can be submitted for publication as Occasional Papers. Article copyright Cultural Survival, Inc.
