It shouldn’t be controversial for academics to affirm a belief in the universality of science, or that indigenous knowledge is not its epistemological equivalent. But unfortunately, today, it often is. In New Zealand, seven academics have issued a letter in defence of scientific knowledge. As expected, some have responded with claims to be deeply hurt/offended. We hope the Vice Chancellor remembers the public duty of universities to pursue truthful knowledge, and supports those who object to the politicisation of academic knowledge itself:
To accept it [indigenous knowledge] as the equivalent of science is to patronise and fail indigenous populations: better to ensure that everyone participates in the world’s scientific enterprises. Indigenous knowledge may indeed help advance scientific knowledge in some ways, but it is not science.
Read the letter here: In defence of science letter 310721
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