Arctic Knowledge Systems Study Group

About

Study Group Leader: Joel Clement, Senior Fellow, Arctic Initiative

One of the four priority areas of Arctic resilience, as described in the Arctic Council’s Arctic Resilience Action Framework, is building the knowledge base to better understand risk and resilience in the region. While it is important to expand the scope and coverage of western science in the Arctic, it is equally important to honor and employ indigenous knowledge to inform adaptation actions and craft resilient and sustainable solutions.

While it may seem obvious that one should derive policy solutions from as many knowledge systems as possible, bridging western science and indigenous knowledge systems has proven problematic. The resilience concept is perhaps the closest thing that western science has to understanding the complex holistic and relational qualities of indigenous knowledge, and may provide a platform for more effectively blending knowledge systems to address the rapidly transforming Arctic.

This Study Group will explore ways to collaboratively employ indigenous and scientific knowledge to improve resilience in the Arctic. It will consist of 6 sessions in which we will discuss inclusion of indigenous perspectives and how to improve for the future. In the Study Group, we will hear from notable guest speakers including indigenous knowledge holders, Western scientists, and policymakers. We will dive into specific cases in the Arctic where there have been attempts to blend indigenous and scientific knowledge systems.

All sessions will be held on Tuesdays beginning September 15th from 12:00pm - 1:00pm (ET). Session dates include:

• Sep 15th 
• Sep 22nd
• Sep 29th
• Oct 6th
• Oct 13th
• Oct 20th

Space is limited! To apply to join the study group please email Brittany Janis your resume and 100 words on why you are interested in participating. 

Contact

For more information, please email  brittany_janis@hks.harvard.edu.

Study Group Leader