Indigenous knowledge

There is no single internationally accepted definition of Indigenous peoples or Indigenous knowledge systems (Petzold et al., 2020). However, Indigenous knowledge systems are integral to cultural complexes, encompassing language, classification systems, resource use practices, social interactions, values, rituals, and spirituality (Cajete, 2016). While there are cultural and linguistic differences, Indigenous knowledge systems share underlying similarities in their approach to the interrelationship and development of individuals within the community (Cajete, 2016). Little Bear (2020) states that Indigenous knowledge systems are holistic, cyclical, generalist, process-oriented, and place-based. The Inuit Circumpolar Council (2021) states that Indigenous knowledge is a systematic way of thinking applied across biological, physical, cultural, and spiritual systems based on direct and long-term experiences, multi-generational observations, lessons, and skills passed on from generation to generation (ICSM CHC White Paper I: Intangible cultural heritage, diverse knowledge systems and climate change)The understandings, skills and philosophies developed by societies with long histories of interaction with their natural surroundings. For many Indigenous peoples, IK informs decision-making about fundamental aspects of life, from day-to-day activities to longer-term actions. This knowledge is integral to cultural complexes, which also encompass language, systems of classification, resource use practices, social interactions, values, ritual and spirituality. These distinctive ways of knowing are important facets of the world’s cultural diversity (UNESCO 2018). See also Traditional Knowledge