Beyond the "gollygee" stage: The inspiration of academics who study Arctic sovereignty

In: International journal / Canadian International Council: Canada's journal of global policy analysis, Band 67, Heft 3, S. 831-847

Abstract

This research addresses a contention in some literature on Arctic sovereignty. Noted Arctic expert Franklyn Griffiths argues that a certain bias pervades the more alarmist work on Arctic sovereignty. He argues that a southern, "Victorian" vision of the Arctic inspires a significant group of Arctic academics. He calls this the "sovereignty first and foremost" perspective. Political scientist Andrea Charron picks up Griffiths's view and argues, "Many experts believe that the claim of sovereignty over the Arctic Archipelago is uniquely tied to the country's sense of national pride and identity." She says that this view is not valid. It is clear that Griffiths and Charron, among others, so not believe many of Canada's top Arctic experts are objective in their analysis -- a view I seek to evaluate in this article. Adapted from the source document.