Genes Are the Ancestors within Us”: Biopiracy in Patricia Grace’s Baby No-Eyes

Abstract

[eng] This dissertation examines Patricia Grace’s novel Baby No-Eyes (1998) with respect to its discussion of “biopiracy” as a new form of colonialism of Indigenous Peoples. Focusing on the narrative of a deceased Māori baby whose eyes have been stolen for unspecified genetic experimentation, Grace denounces new forms of colonisation and exploitation of the Māori body and more specifically, Western unauthorised scientific appropriation of Māori identity. Departing from the novel’s discussion of genetic engineering, and the past stories of land expropriation, the paper argues that biopiracy constitutes a revived threat to Māori physical and spiritual well-being, as it collides with their cultural values, customs and integrity. Moreover, it discusses Grace’s resistance to biopiracy by drawing upon Māori-based narrative techniques, such as speech-making, polyphony and storytelling. Ultimately, the article explores the novel’s powerful arguments for the creation of ethical protocols in the field of biology, genetics and medicine that will ensure Indigenous Peoples’ consent, and the protection of their fundamental freedom and human right