Two-Eyed Seeing: Science and Traditional Ecological Knowledge | California Academy of Sciences

Summary

This video script emphasizes the deep, reciprocal relationship between Indigenous peoples and their land, highlighting the vital importance of Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK). It reflects on the responsibility to care for the environment, the preservation of language and culture, and the integration of both Indigenous wisdom and Western science to restore ecosystems. The narrative underscores the urgent need to adopt sustainable practices to combat environmental degradation, while reaffirming the commitment to protect and regenerate the land for future generations, with a strong call for unity and collaboration across all communities.

Takeaways

• 😀 Native Hawaiians believe in a reciprocal relationship with the land, viewing it as an obligation and responsibility, not just a privilege.
• 😀 Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) is central to Native Hawaiian life and spiritual values, emphasizing sustainable and regenerative relationships with ecosystems.
• 😀 TEK is localized knowledge, often encoded in tribal languages, and plays a crucial role in preserving environmental practices and cultural identity.
• 😀 Despite challenges, there is a strong desire and opportunity to reconnect with indigenous knowledge through language and culture.
• 😀 Historical efforts to suppress indigenous culture and spirituality (such as missions) failed to destroy them, as these practices were kept safe for future generations.
• 😀 With climate change and environmental degradation accelerating, indigenous knowledge offers valuable insights on how to restore and sustain ecosystems.
• 😀 TEK can be integrated with Western scientific practices (referred to as 'Two-Eyed Seeing') to enhance environmental restoration and conservation efforts.
• 😀 Indigenous peoples have a deep, inherent connection to their land and ecosystems, which provides unique insights into ecological processes.
• 😀 It is essential that government and environmental organizations include indigenous knowledge in their strategies to address global environmental issues like climate change.
• 😀 A long-term, multi-generational perspective guides environmental restoration, highlighting the importance of combining traditional practices with modern science for future sustainability.
• 😀 Indigenous groups are actively working to heal from historical trauma and restore their land and identity, creating positive momentum for cultural regeneration and environmental care.

Q & A

What does the Hawaiian saying 'He kauā ke kanaka, he aliʻi ka ʻāina' mean?

The saying means that humans are in service to the land, and it's not just a privilege but an obligation and responsibility. It reflects a reciprocal relationship with the environment, where humans do not have dominion over nature but are part of it.

Why is the relationship with land considered a responsibility in Native Hawaiian culture?

In Native Hawaiian culture, the relationship with the land is considered a responsibility because humans are seen as stewards of the environment, tasked with its care and preservation, rather than rulers over it.

What is Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK), and why is it important?

Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) refers to the knowledge, beliefs, values, and practices developed by Indigenous peoples to maintain sustainable relationships with their ecosystems. It is important because it offers valuable insights into sustainability and regeneration of the environment.

How does the loss of language affect the transmission of TEK?

The loss of language makes it difficult to fully transmit TEK, as much of this knowledge is encoded in tribal languages. Without the language, critical cultural and environmental knowledge can be lost or harder to access.

What did the speaker's grandmother say about the loss of culture and knowledge?

The speaker’s grandmother mentioned that the knowledge was not lost but was 'put away' to be kept safe. This action allowed their culture and identity to survive and later be revived.

Why does the speaker emphasize the importance of TEK in environmental restoration?

The speaker emphasizes TEK because it offers over 15,000 years of successful practices in environmental sustainability. In the face of environmental crises, this traditional knowledge can play a critical role in restoring ecosystems and ensuring long-term sustainability.

What is 'Two-Eyed Seeing,' and how does it relate to environmental science?

'Two-Eyed Seeing' refers to combining the strengths of both Indigenous knowledge (TEK) and Western scientific approaches. By integrating these perspectives, it is possible to restore habitats and ecological processes effectively.

Why is it crucial for governments and environmental organizations to incorporate Indigenous knowledge in addressing climate change?

Indigenous knowledge is foundational because it provides a deep understanding of local ecosystems and sustainable practices. Integrating this knowledge with modern scientific research can help create more effective policies and solutions for environmental issues like climate change.

What is the role of traditional values in guiding environmental restoration efforts?

Traditional values guide environmental restoration by focusing on long-term sustainability, considering the well-being of future generations. This forward-thinking approach is rooted in respect for the past and a commitment to preserving the land for future generations.

How does the concept of a land trust help Indigenous communities heal from historic trauma?

A land trust helps Indigenous communities heal by allowing them to reconnect with their ancestral lands, rebuild their identity, and reclaim their cultural practices. It provides a path for healing both from historical trauma and environmental degradation.