It is also what makes it powerful.

The Questions Spirit Cave Leaves Behind

Even after repatriation, the case leaves difficult questions that do not have simple answers.

Should ancient human remains ever be sampled without descendant-community consent?

How should scientists proceed when multiple tribes have plausible relationships to one ancestor?

What happens when genetic evidence conflicts with archaeological interpretation?

How should institutions handle old collections when excavation records are incomplete?

How much weight should oral history receive in legal determinations?

What if a tribe does not want genetic testing at all?

What if a scientific sample has already been taken before consultation?