There is already a post about Primitive societies (https://cataloginglab.org/kb/primitive-societies-revision/) but I thought I’d add this one as well. I’ve looked at a lot of these records recently and in addition to being offensive, the term is applied so broadly it is meaningless.
I am considering two options for a change in LCSH:
-Delete the headings Art, Primitive and Arts, Primitive and instead add them as UF in Art and Arts. Art, Western (Western countries) is a UF.
-Suggest a change to “Art, Nonindustrial.” This is still a problematic framing.
The Art and Architecture Thesaurus says “‘primitive art’ is no longer used, although “tribal art” may be”
about this term: “An outdated designation formerly used for the art of certain people considered to be outside the spheres of influence of other, politically dominant cultural groups; was used especially concerning communities in sub-Saharan Africa, the Pacific Islands, and native tribal groups throughout the Americas. Use instead “tribal art” or the most specific name known for the culture of origin. Distinct from “primitivism,” a term sometimes used for artistic styles or movements intended, often romantically or sentimentally, to emulate the appearance of art made by people operating outside of mainstream art markets.” http://www.getty.edu/vow/AATFullDisplay?find=primitive+art&logic=AND¬e=&english=N&prev_page=1&subjectid=300056500