Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 29, 2025
00:26
Perspectives on Neuroscience
Published on: July 31, 2007
4.9K
Two-Eyed Seeing and other Indigenous perspectives for neuroscience
J Illes1, M L Perreault2, K Bassil3
1Neuroethics Canada, Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. jilles@mail.ubc.ca.
Nature
|February 5, 2025
Summary
Integrating Indigenous knowledge with neuroscience, known as Two-Eyed Seeing, enhances brain health research and clinical practices. This approach promotes humility and a holistic understanding of the brain and mind.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Indigenous Knowledge Systems
- Integrative Health
Background:
- Biomedical neuroscience often lacks holistic perspectives.
- Indigenous knowledge offers complementary frameworks for understanding the brain and mind.
- Integrating diverse knowledge systems is crucial for advancing brain health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the integration of Indigenous perspectives with biomedical neuroscience.
- To introduce and define the concept of Two-Eyed Seeing (Etuaptmumk).
- To discuss the benefits of dual perspectives for research and clinical practices in brain health.
Main Methods:
- Drawing upon writings of Canadian Elders and Indigenous scholars.
- Incorporating traditional academic and non-academic traditions.
- Analyzing methodologies, life, health, culture, language, and history through an integrated lens.
Main Results:
- Two-Eyed Seeing broadens understanding of the human brain and mind.
- Integration fosters breadth of knowledge and humility in research and practice.
- Strategies for allyship, humility, and universalism are proposed.
Conclusions:
- Two-Eyed Seeing offers a powerful model for inclusive neuroscience.
- Addressing challenges in disability, suicide, migration, and environment requires integrated approaches.
- Neuroscience must adopt both reductionist and holistic views for global, ethical engagement.
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