Download Local vs. Scientific Knowledge: Similarities, Distinctions, and Anthropological Views and more Exercises Introduction to Cultural Anthropology in PDF only on Docsity! Introduction to Cultural Anthropology – SOC401 VU © Copyright Virtual University of Pakistan 82 Lesson 38 LOCAL OR INDIGENOUS KNOWLEDGE (continued) Scientific Knowledge vs. Local Knowledge Is local knowledge ultimately equivalent to knowledge gained through science, or is it structured entirely differently? This is an age-old topic of debate in anthropology; the debate concerned with rationality and so- called alternative modes of thought. A corresponding practical question is if local knowledge can be utilized within the framework of scientifically-based measures? Or, is local knowledge a holistic counter-model to science (to be used to criticize measures founded on analytical science)? Most characterizations of local knowledge are defined in complete contrast to scientific knowledge. But local and scientific knowledge are neither completely different nor entirely the same; they display both commonalities and differences. Similarities between Local & Scientific Knowledge Local knowledge and knowledge derived from science are similar primarily in having an empirical and a methodological basis. Both local knowledge and science use observations of the outside world which are in principle accessible and communicable. While both forms of knowledge use experiments, local knowledge proceeds rather from observations gained through trial-and-error or so-called "natural experiments", i.e. inferences drawn from the impacts of natural changes in certain quantities. Scientific knowledge on the other hand relies on controlled experiments. Distinctions between Local & Scientific Knowledge Scientific knowledge seeks information which is transferable to any spatial or social situation, i.e. which is not context-bound. As a result, scientists know a great deal about small sections of reality. In contrast, local knowledge systems seek spatially, situation-bound or context-bound information. The validity of items of local knowledge is locally restricted, i.e. they cannot be transferred to other local contexts. The potential for generalization and thus also mutual learning is in principle limited with local knowledge. Owners of local knowledge are often only inadequately aware of market mechanisms. Potential for Anthropological Contribution The inter-cultural perspective of anthropologists enables them to reflect on and integrate both ways of knowing, and for seeing where to draw the line. Local knowledge, out of its cultural situation, loses its frame of reference, and without the necessary skills to decipher it becomes meaningless. The Need for Caution While local knowledge increases people’s empowerment, enhances the visibility of their problems, is geared to subsistence and risk minimization, leading to more sustainable solutions, a cautious approach has to be adopted. Practices which are based on local knowledge are not per se ecologically sound, necessarily socially just, or even democratic. Neither is local knowledge equivalent to "people’s knowledge" in the sense that it would always be shared by most or even all members of a group. Useful Terms docsity.com
