https://www.researchgate.net/publication/267291291_Not_just_a_tree_Recognizing_understanding_and_assessing_intangible_cultural_values_of_nature
Not just a tree: Recognizing, understanding and assessing intangible cultural values of nature
Abstract
Background/Question/Methods
Most people have little trouble understanding and accommodating the notion that there is more to a human being than our bones, blood, flesh and hair; human life is valued far beyond the direct worth of our bodies. Yet, many have difficulty recognizing this type of value of other species, and nature in general: a deeply engrained value beyond their basic economic potential. The concept of “kincentric ecology,” embraced within many Indigenous Traditional Ecological Knowledge systems, provides a multitude of examples of the spiritual and emotional benefits of Nature in the human consciousness. With “kincentricity,” other lifeforms are considered our relatives or kin, having the same capacity for thought, feeling, generosity, and gratitude, as reflected in stories, ceremonies and deeply held cultural traditions of many Indigenous Peoples. The inextricable relationships between humans and nature are embraced in peoples’ daily lives, and nature takes on all the attributes and value of our human family members. Under this worldview, nature also requires from humans the same caretaking responsibilities that we assume for our kin. Such concepts of reciprocity and mutual support are embedded in peoples’ land and resource management practices. This approach has much to offer in our struggles to sustain the life on our planet.
Most people have little trouble understanding and accommodating the notion that there is more to a human being than our bones, blood, flesh and hair; human life is valued far beyond the direct worth of our bodies. Yet, many have difficulty recognizing this type of value of other species, and nature in general: a deeply engrained value beyond their basic economic potential. The concept of “kincentric ecology,” embraced within many Indigenous Traditional Ecological Knowledge systems, provides a multitude of examples of the spiritual and emotional benefits of Nature in the human consciousness. With “kincentricity,” other lifeforms are considered our relatives or kin, having the same capacity for thought, feeling, generosity, and gratitude, as reflected in stories, ceremonies and deeply held cultural traditions of many Indigenous Peoples. The inextricable relationships between humans and nature are embraced in peoples’ daily lives, and nature takes on all the attributes and value of our human family members. Under this worldview, nature also requires from humans the same caretaking responsibilities that we assume for our kin. Such concepts of reciprocity and mutual support are embedded in peoples’ land and resource management practices. This approach has much to offer in our struggles to sustain the life on our planet.
