Protecting Indigenous Knowledge Systems

3 credits · Undergraduate

(3 hrs Lecture/Seminar) This course addresses emerging issues for Indigenous peoples regarding the use and exploitation of their knowledge and natural resources. It examines case studies where rights over knowledge and the stewardship of biodiversity have been threatened and examples where Indigenous peoples have been able to manage and protect their environment and associated knowledge. The course focuses on the contributions of native science, Indigenous ecological knowledge and wisdom of the Elders in North America and connections to similar Indigenous knowledge systems in other parts of the world. Requisite Courses: IS-1016 (or HIST-1009) and IS-1017, or the former IS-1015, or permission of the instructor [prerequisite(s)].