“The heart of anthropological study lies in the critical examination and understanding of the concept of culture, of the ideas, feelings and behaviors learned and shared and the product of those behaviors that are characteristic of any society.” (Moro, Magic, Witchcraft, and Religion, 2012). To understand the centuries-old struggle of Tibet's resistance to China and the attempt to eradicate Tibetan culture requires an in-depth look at their historical political events and philosophical traditions. and religious beliefs. The debate over Tibetan sovereignty and their struggle are twofold: first, whether or not the People's Republic of China (PRC) has the right to claim Tibet as an “integral part of China” (Walt van Pragg, The Legal Status of Tibet , 2010) thus giving them ownership of Tibetan territory… Second, whether or not Tibet is forced to adopt China's current political ideologies and cultural practices and give up rights to its own cultural, linguistic, religious practices and ideologies unique policies that structure Tibetan society. If so, how did this happen and why, and what are the implications of this debate? In the case of Tibet and China, this debate became one of rights to cultural freedom, leading to what has now become one of the most politically contentious human rights issues between the world's countries and the United Nations. When we apply an anthropological perspective to the issue of the cultures in question, we can examine both sides and determine whether or not a human rights issue exists due to cultural differences that are perhaps influenced by the religious/philosophical doctrine and ultimats of their particular society. ...... middle of sheet ......nes - Office of the Historian." The Chinese Revolution of 1911 -1899–1913 - Milestones - Office of the Historian. US Department of State, nd Web. 23 April. 2014. “Short Biography.” His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama. The Office of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, n.d. Web. 01 April 2014. Pillay, Navi “China Urgently Addresses Rights Violations in Tibet – Official senior United Nations". News Center, 2 November 2012. Web. 23 April 2014. Religion in China (2014, Wikipedia). accuses the United States of interference after the Obama-Dalai Lama meeting – Hindustan Times (2014, 22 February http://www.hindustantimes.com/). Retrieved April 24, 2014, from http://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/china-accuses-us-of-meddling-after-obama-dalai-lama- meeting/article1-1186941.aspx