The Big Question
Big Question 2: Re-imagining Ways of Knowing Can indigenous and scientific ways of knowing work together in solving some of the world’s problems without losing their special values and differences?
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Big Question 2: Re-imagining Ways of Knowing Can indigenous and scientific ways of knowing work together in solving some of the world’s problems without losing their special values and differences?
Indigenous cultures need to keep their knowledge systems alive in order for their cultures to survive and be strengthened. Indigenous knowledge, gained from experiencing the environment, gradually accumulates through the generations. This knowledge of the land is not being used in management of the environment today, yet it should be a crucial part of preserving dying ecologies and dying cultures. If the land is lost, then in essence so are the people.
There is a reciprocal relationship with the land, and knowledge is shared between humans & non-humans. Respect, reciprocity & balance are very important aspects of traditional knowledge. The relationship to land and the responsibilities that come with it bind indigenous people together. Knowledge gives both internal and external power, & the dominant culture is now beginning to see the value of indigenous knowledge. By protecting traditional knowledge from cultural imperialism, traditional cultures can remain distinctive & retain their power so they cannot be assimilated by the dominant culture. In order for indigenous cultures to thrive they must regain control over their land and resources, & thereby regain the ability to preserve their knowledge systems. Recording traditional knowledge in writing and storing it is not the solution to preserving indigenous cultures as traditional knowledge is “living” and dynamic, and is tied into experiencing the environment in which one lives.
Another way in which traditional knowledge is a key in the survival of indigenous societies is that knowledge transmission depends on a close knit society, or interdependence. Knowledge is also tightly interwoven with morals, respect & values. Storytelling & ceremonies are used to relay experiences and pass on knowledge & values of the people which is for the wellbeing of the whole community. Each person (including all creatures of the natural world) has a role to play in sustaining the cycles of life. The Western culture, which values “being” independent, can isolate people from sharing knowledge in this way. The relationship with the environment that comes from knowing it brings interconnectedness & wholeness of life, including amongst members of indigenous societies.