A recent conference at Haskell Indian Nations University explored how Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) could be used to study climate change. The conference included presentations about how climate change was affecting native peoples across the country and the world. I think the conference clearly demonstrated how much TEK can enrich the study of Earth Science.
TEK can be of most value to western science in teaching how to use scientific methods that take a holistic approach. Unfortunately, most scientists only see TEK as valuable for picking up indigenous stories here and there about local and long-term natural phenomenon. TEK, which emphasizes the connection among living things, offers an interdisciplinary approach to the complex problem of climate change. Ultimately, the use of TEK may lead to a more complete understanding of climate change because it has been neglected for so long. TEK is fundamentally different from an approach that focuses on only one little piece of the problem, as has been the classical deconstructionist approach.
Currently, Earth scientists use paradigms that dismiss important connections between people and their environment, such as the idea of non-humans being conscious in a meaningful way or the effects of the spiritual world on natural phenomena. These ideas have an opportunity to be re-included in the study of climate change though TEK. As students are encouraged to accept TEK as a legitimate way of  knowing, I believe we will see more scientists who are native. These scientists will bring with them new paradigms, which will result in revolutionary advances in the field. Science has historically made great advances when it includes scientists who were previously not taken seriously enough to make a meaningful contribution to the field.
I really enjoyed visiting a university with so much history. Haskell is well positioned to set an example for other tribal colleges as they transition into the 21st century. They have a widely recognized environmental science program, a history of serving all Indian nations, and the connections to outside educators and professionals that are necessary to make a university successful. I have been interested in TEK for a while, and it was great for me to see that other teachers and experts are also pursuing this topic. The discussions that took place, and the knowledge that was exchanged during this visit, will become the foundation for a new center for Earth sciences that will serve the people who live closest to the earth and are most vulnerable to its perturbations. I am excited and proud to participate in the construction of such a beneficial center.
- Bret Harper -
Jenner band of Coast Miwok and Southern Pomo |
