Formation and Change of Property Regimes: The Case of Reindeer in Norway

Abstract

This study forwards a social approach to property regimes; to sets of rules created to access, use, control and manage a resource, in this case reindeer in Norway. As such, it begins with people and their often differing and diverse beliefs, values and interests. Central among the actors involved in reindeer property regimes in Norway are the indigenous Sámi people. Another important actor is the Norwegian state. Examples of the types of claims they make include: a basic necessity – a source of food and warmth; a nuisance; a source of sport; a basis for claiming national sovereignty; a basis for maintaining a living language; a part of nature and a part of the cultural landscape.