Traditional ecological knowledge in conservation research: Problems and prospects for their constructive engagement
In response to growing interest in accessing traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) for conservation purposes, we discuss some of the complexities involved in doing TEK research. Specifically, we consider the issues of power and politicisation, ethics and situated knowledge. These are standard issues to be considered in any social scientific endeavour and are particularly compelling when dealing with indigenous groups or cross-cultural contexts. We argue that the human context, and the researcher's ability to adequately understand and account for it, will largely determine the success or failure of TEK research. To this end, we offer three broad recommendations for conservation researchers hoping to engage TEK. Only through an informed and conscientious approach can TEK be incorporated into mainstream conservation research in a manner beneficial to both conservation and TEK holders.
Duke Scholars
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Related Subject Headings
- 4408 Political science
- 4406 Human geography
- 4104 Environmental management
- 1606 Political Science
- 1604 Human Geography
- 0502 Environmental Science and Management
Citation
Published In
EISSN
ISSN
Publication Date
Volume
Issue
Start / End Page
Related Subject Headings
- 4408 Political science
- 4406 Human geography
- 4104 Environmental management
- 1606 Political Science
- 1604 Human Geography
- 0502 Environmental Science and Management