Abstract
The title seems to be a complex one that mixes aspects of philosophy, environmentalism, and possibly social or cultural commentary. Let us deconstruct it: The phrase “when to exist is to resist” implies that, under some circumstances or contexts, simply living or surviving can be an act of resistance. It could imply that certain people or communities experience difficult or repressive circumstances and that their very survival serves as a type of protest or resiliency. The phrase “need a two-eyed philosophy” implies a need for a specific philosophy or perspective that is referred to as “two-eyed.” This could indicate the need for a dual or balanced perspective, one that takes into account several points of view or ways of viewing the world. The phrase “from toxic environments to reciprocal setting” denotes a transition or change from unfavorable or damaging environments (“toxic environments”) to more neutral and advantageous environments (“reciprocal setting”). It suggests a need or desire to change unfavorable situations into ones that are healthier and more harmonious. So, this chapter deals with these themes and it appears to make a case for a philosophical viewpoint that can aid people or communities in navigating and reacting to difficult and damaging educational environments in a thoughtful and resourceful manner. Discussions beyond education environmental justice, Indigenous viewpoints, or social and cultural resilience in the face of misfortune may be relevant. It is difficult to give an exact meaning without further context, yet the statement seems to express a sophisticated and thought-provoking concept.
TopBeyond The Cartesian Dualism
Contemporary ethnological and sociological study has sparked an increasing discourse on social research methodologies, with a specific focus on Indigenous cultures. Academics have found inspiration in the concept of two-eyed philosophical thinking, which involves a decolonial analysis that seeks to broaden the potential of social sciences. The concept of “two-eyed philosophy” was originated by Indigenous communities in the United States and Canada with the intention of contesting stigmatizing and colonial terminology, and emphasizing the spiritual aspect of individuals rather than their sexual behaviors. The notion of two-eyed philosophy transcends the binary mindset of mind-body and aims to harmoniously incorporate Indigenous knowledge and Western science with mutual reverence (Siraz et al., 2020). The concept has gained significant acceptance in academic and community settings, particularly in Canada, where it is seen as a model for advancing culturally sensitive and inclusive methods in education, research, and decision-making. Many works have employed binocular philosophy in diverse fields and circumstances. The book “Living on the Land: Indigenous Women's Understanding of Place” by Nathalie Kermoal and Isabel Altamirano-Jimenez (2016) delves into the realm of environmental study and management, specifically focusing on the exploration of Indigenous women's knowledge and connections with the land. China Mills's (2014) book “Decolonizing Global Mental Health” explores the significance of integrating Indigenous knowledge into mental health research within the field of health research and policy. Marie Battiste's (2013) book “Decolonizing Education” advocates for the incorporation of Indigenous epistemologies and pedagogies into formal educational environments. Rick Kelly's (2015) book “Working Together for Safer Communities” employs a dual perspective to foster cooperation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous populations in the field of community development.
Notable scholarly articles include Cheryl Bartlett's (2005) “Two-Eyed Seeing and the Language of Healing in Community-Based Research,” which examines the use of two-eyed philosophy in community-based research, and Emily Root and Elizabeth Lange's (2017) “Two-Eyed Seeing in the Classroom Environment,” which explores the difficulties of integrating Indigenous and Western knowledge systems in science education.
Essentially, two-eyed philosophy is a critical examination that aims to combine Indigenous knowledge and Western science in order to address the effects of colonization. It has been extensively utilized in diverse domains, including environmental research, health, education, and community development, to advance culturally sensitive and inclusive methodologies (Siraz Chowdhury et al., 2023).
These articles demonstrate the diverse ways in which Two-Eyed Philosophy has influenced the field of philosophy of education, promoting the incorporation of Indigenous knowledge and perspectives and challenging the dominance of Western knowledge systems. The impact and legacy of the Two-Eyed Philosophy in the field of philosophy of education have been significant, particularly in Canada, where it has gained widespread recognition as a framework for promoting culturally responsive and inclusive approaches to education. One of Two-Eyed Philosophy's most significant contributions to the philosophy of education is its emphasis on the significance of incorporating Indigenous knowledge and perspectives into educational practices and curriculum. This approach recognizes that Indigenous knowledge is not only valuable in its own right but can also enhance and complement Western knowledge systems, leading to a more comprehensive and holistic understanding of the world. Two-Eyed Philosophy has also been influential in promoting a more relational and collaborative approach to education. The approach emphasizes the importance of building respectful and reciprocal relationships between educators and Indigenous communities, and of working collaboratively to develop curriculum and educational practices that are culturally responsive and relevant.
Key Terms in this Chapter
Human Rights and Phenomenology: This idea investigates the possible connections between human rights ideas and phenomenology, a philosophy that emphasizes subjective experience. It entails a look at how phenomenological insights can improve and enlighten our comprehension of matters pertaining to human rights.
Two-Eyed Philosophy: The term “Two-Eyed Philosophy” describes a method that blends Western philosophical ideas with Indigenous ways of knowing. In order to promote a more inclusive and holistic understanding of reality, it aims to integrate various worldviews and knowledge systems.
Cartesian Duality: René Descartes is linked to the Cartesian Dualism school of philosophy, which holds that there is a fundamental difference between the body and the mind. It creates a division between mental and physical experiences, resulting in the notion that the body and mind are separate entities with independent existence.
Critical School of Frankfurt: The Frankfurt School of Critical Theory's intellectual heritage is known as the Frankfurtian Critical School. In order to advance social justice and change, this school of thought—which includes philosophers like Theodor Adorno and Max Horkheimer—critically analyses and critiques societal structures, ideologies, and cultural norms.