Two-Eyed Seeing
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Two-Eyed Seeing
Two-Eyed Seeing is a guiding principle for co-learning and knowledge integration brought forward by Mi'kmaw Elder Albert Marshall in 2004. It refers to learning to see from one eye with the strengths of Indigenous knowledges and ways of knowing, and from the other eye with the strengths of Western/mainstream knowledges and ways of knowing, and to using both these eyes together, for the benefit of all. The principle holds Indigenous and mainstream sciences as distinct, whole knowledge systems—side by side, not blended into undifferentiated synthesis—to be woven back and forth between as contextual circumstances demand.[1]
Concept Map
Key Terms
- Archetype System
- Ecosystem Integrity
- Epistemic Agency
- Epistemic Awareness
- Epistemic Controls
- Epistemic Democracy
- Epistemic Goals
- Epistemic Humility
- Epistemic Pollution
- Epistemic Practices
- Epistemic Violence
- Knowledge Ecosystem
Syncretic Terms
Related LP Terms
Non-LP Related Terms
Notes
Origin: Coined by Mi'kmaw Elder Albert Marshall (Eskasoni First Nation) over 25 years ago, it is a guiding principle for living and research.
Core Philosophy: It is not about blending, but about utilizing the best of both worlds—Indigenous (holistic, relationship-based) and Western (analytical, data-driven)—to gain a more comprehensive understanding.
Purpose: It aims to prevent the clashing of knowledge systems, encourage sustainability, and foster respectful, equitable collaboration, particularly in health, education, and environmental sectors.
Application: Used to address complex issues like climate change (e.g., combining environmental science with traditional stewardship) or in healthcare for culturally safe care.
Significance in Modern Context
Two-Eyed Seeing has been adopted widely, including in environmental studies and as a model for ethical AI development. It prioritizes recognizing that no single perspective is superior and that weaving them can lead to more effective, sustainable solutions.
Jeffery et. all provide some guidance on implementation.[2]
Citation and Legal
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Footnotes
- ↑ Bartlett, Cheryl, Murdena Marshall, and Albert Marshall. “Two-Eyed Seeing and Other Lessons Learned within a Co-Learning Journey of Bringing Together Indigenous and Mainstream Knowledges and Ways of Knowing.” Journal of Environmental Studies and Sciences 2, no. 4 (2012): 331–40. EJ987715, pp. 331–40. ERIC. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13412-012-0086-8.
- ↑ Jeffery, Tristan, Donna L. M. Kurtz, and Charlotte Ann Jones. “Two-Eyed Seeing: Current Approaches, and Discussion of Medical Applications.” BCMJ, May 2026. https://bcmj.org/articles/two-eyed-seeing-current-approaches-and-discussion-medical-applications.