ABSTRACT
In the Brazilian context, the dizzying growth of archaeological investigations related to heritage preservation is a consequence of the democratization of the country and the adoption of public policies that foster citizen participation in the management of their own cultural heritage. The investigation discusses how the Paresi use archaeological information and what are the ideological applications of this information and the epistemological questions that address social identities and the political nature of science. Globalization has both permitted and stimulated the organization of indigenous peoples; many of them have obtained international funds and participate in international networks, thus achieving a greater impact and political reach than before. Ethnic groups have intensified the fight for the demarcation and recognition of their lands, and the new federal constitution has modified the legal framework dealing with environmental and indigenous issues. Ancient cultural models and symbols were adapted to new realities, absorbing new meanings.
