Knowing through being known : reflections on Indigenous epistemology and participatory consciousness

Shannon Said

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

4 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Traditional approaches to engaging in research with Indigenous communities have often utilized western epistemological and ontological bases as the foundations of research. While these research methodologies may be appropriate within some settings, there are strong arguments from Indigenous (Māori) scholars that these frameworks actually promote neo-colonialism, albeit unintentionally. This article explores the import of utilizing Heshusius’ participatory mode of consciousness, where the researcher intentionally and actively forgoes their own research agenda in order to engage with that of the research community, effectively sharing research between themselves and the participant. This leads to a new form of self–other unity, where the researcher becomes an inextricable part of the community, forming relationships that are inherently necessary for any respectful research with Indigenous groups to take place. This concept is nestled within a Kaupapa Māori research framework, which seeks to validate Māori ways of knowing and constructing knowledge, perhaps at the expense of western ideals.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1124-1138
Number of pages15
JournalInterventions: international journal of postcolonial studies
Volume21
Issue number8
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2019

Keywords

  • Maori (New Zealand people)
  • culture
  • indigenous peoples
  • postcolonialism
  • research
  • social epistemology

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