A Few Commonalities of Connectivity, Energies and Ethics

Abstract

While there is no single way of being Indigenous any more than there is a single way to be Western, there are commonalities in what could be called “related worldviews”. The various numbers of Indigenous communities in North, Central and South America alone defy any ability to make universal claims. Indeed, even within a single community, world-views may vary. The complexity of worldviews is further complicated by the fact that some Indigenous communities have been or are split arbitrarily by the physical borders of other cultures. In addition, these communities have been, and are, divided by a multitude of historic, sociologic and economic factors. Discussions involving multiple populations and communities potentially create an infinite set of dimensions, which can frustrate communication. Given the complexities and differences in origin, history and social order, it is impossible to give any single set of rules that would serve as a model for borderland discussions. This chapter does not presume to speak for all communities or all Indigenous people. What is offered is an interpretation of some commonalities that may assist those participating in intercultural communication. The concepts are offered with respect and the understanding that not all Indigenous people will support every claim and some may adhere to worldviews not discussed.