Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 3, 2025

Investigating the Microbial Community in the Termite Hindgut - Interview
Published on: May 28, 2007
Ethnobiology! Until when will the colonialist legacy be reinforced?
Sofia Zank1, Cristiane Gomes Julião2,3, Adriana de Souza de Lima4
1Laboratory of Human Ecology and Ethnobotany (ECOHE), Department of Ecology and Zoology, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, Brazil. sofiazank@gmail.com.
Abstract:
In this essay, we will present arguments for a negative answer to the debate question: "Is publishing ethnobiology data respectful of Indigenous and Local Knowledge holders' rights?" We recognize that ethnobiological research has advanced in recognizing the rights of Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities (IPLC), but we believe that we still have a long way to go in deconstructing colonialism in ethnobiology. In order to be truly respectful, ethnobiologists need to collaborate with IPLC to achieve an ethical science with equity between knowledge systems, fostering the co-production of knowledge from an intercultural science perspective. This essay was written by a group of Brazilian scientists, both IPLC and non-IPLC, and reflects a perspective of the academic universe seen from the place we are, in this multicultural and imbalanced world.
Related Concept Videos
Biodiversity and Human Values
The Colonization of Land
Ethnic Identity within a Larger Culture
What is Evolutionary History?
Ethics in Research
Evolutionary Psychology

