Papers related to the New Guinea Micro-Evolution Project, led by James B. Watson. Also included are papers written for an American Anthropological Association conference session looking back at the study and its impact on the discipline. Papers range in date from 1959-1994, and include reports, meeting minutes, working papers, and conference papers.

The Committee on New Guinea Studies (CONGS), formed in the United States in 1956, consisted of anthropologists from six Pacific Coast universities. Concerned with the rapid disappearance of native populations untouched by Western influence, the group planned a long term study of populations in interior New Guinea. Beginning in early 1959, a cooperative study began in the Eastern Highlands of Papua New Guinea. Led by James Watson and supported by the National Science Foundation, the project examined the languages, cultures, psychological traits, racial characteristics, and ecological adaptations of the native populations in Gadsup, Tairora, Auyana, and Awa. Along with Watson, researchers included Howard McKaughan, Brian du Toit, Madeleine Leininger, Robert Littlewood, K.J. Pataki, and Robert Welsch.

0.25 Linear feet (1 archives box)

Publication rights are held by the creator of the collection.