Gesture and posture: pointing the finger and the mapping of outer continental shelves

This note considers the practice of pointing the finger at the map. Using two recent examples from Australia and Norway involving outer continental shelf submissions, it considers why such a bodily gesture might actually be more than a mere gesture. With regard to the polar regions, it is a timely reminder that ceremonies of possession remain important and provides further opportunity to reflect on the embodied and gendered nature of these activities. Being seen is one thing and being cited is another.