What is Indigenous Knowledge (IK)?
Indigenous Knowledge (IK) is generally understood as
knowlege which is unique to a given culture, society or community and
which is deeply rooted in cultural traditions, values and belief
systems. Indigenous knowledge is a complex system of knowledge which
draws on hundreds of years of wisdom and experience. These knowledge
systems are dynamic, changing with the addition of new information.
Because it is based on experience, each culture, society or community
will have a system of knowledge that is distinct from all others. The
transmission of this knowledge from generation to generation can be
through the use of traditions such as songs, stories, dreams and
legends. Ecological methods, crafts, songs, foods, medicines, art, dance
and music are all drawn from Indigenous knowledge.
What are the qualities of an IK
methodology?
An IK methodology could be understood as being holistic,
practically-based, communicated orally from generation to generation and
taught and understood based on observation and personal
experience.
While there is no formal understanding of what an "Indigenous
knowledge methodology" is, it is an area which is being negotiated and a
clear understanding of what this methodology may look like is emerging.
Through networks such as the IHRKTN and the creation of an open
dialogue, we are trying to discern the scope and shape of this
methodology.
How are IK methods different from Western
methodologies?
Whereas IK is understood as holistic, relational, experiential
and pluralistic, Western methodologies are often described as
reductionist, linear, objective, hierarchical, empirical, specialized
and written.1
1. Janet Smylie et al., (2003) Knowledge Translation and
Indigenous Knowledge. International Journal of Circumpolor Health 63
suppl(2), 139-143. (pdf
version)
