Herman, R.D.K. 2016. Traditional knowledge in a time of crisis: climate change, culture and communication. Springer 11(1): 163-176.

Type
Literature
Publication
Herman, R.D.K. 2016. Traditional knowledge in a time of crisis: climate change, culture and communication. Springer 11(1): 163-176.
Year Published
2016
Description

"Science as it has come to be defined in Western thought is at the root of our current environmental problems. This article reviews the historical trajectory of specific facets in Western thought, including the disenchantment of nature, the apotheosis of reason, the technological domination of nature, and the Puritan temper. Illuminating this history points out that what is called “rational” and what popularly acceptable as “science” is in fact a by-product of specific historical, cultural, and political circumstances, and has produced a culture of “scientism” that is ideological, not value-free, and is in fact contrary to the open inquiry of science. These ideas are linked to economic rationality, colonialism, and human rights, severing modern humans from our Indigenous roots and fostering an ideology of rapacious environmental exploitation. The author proposes “indigeneity” as embracing the holistic knowledge and wisdom found in traditional cultures while also utilizing the advances in science and other areas of human endeavor."

Geography