Papua Headhunters explores the multifaceted history of headhunting among Papua's tribes and the transformative impact of colonialism. The book examines headhunting not merely as a violent act, but as an integral part of Papuan cosmology, deeply intertwined with social organization and identity formation. For example, headhunting played a role in male initiation rites and ancestor veneration.

Colonial intervention brought disruption, suppressing traditions and introducing new technologies that reshaped Papuan society. This study offers a historical overview, analyzing motivations, rituals, and social structures related to headhunting. It draws from ethnographic accounts, missionary records, and oral histories, providing a balanced account of Papuan traditions.

The book progresses by first establishing the pre-colonial context, then delving into the origins and societal functions of headhunting, and finally analyzing the impact of colonial contact and its contemporary legacy, addressing controversies and emphasizing cultural context.