‘Two-Eyed Seeing’ combines indigenous and Western perspectives for better brain and mental health
Journey, communities and values through different lenses of priority – Rudi Taylor-Bragge
Integrating indigenous perspectives and knowledge in neuroscience can significantly broaden the understanding of the human brain and mind, as argued by the International Brain Initiative’s cross-cultural working group of researchers led by Professor Judy Illes from the University of British Columbia, Associate Professor Melissa Perreault from the University of Guelph and including PhD Candidate Rudi Taylor-Bragge from Monash School of Psychological Sciences.
Published in Nature, their invited perspective paper draws on the concept of ‘Two-Eyed Seeing’ or Etuaptmumk, which was conceived by Mi’kmaq Elders Albert and Murdena Marshall from Unama’ki (Cape Breton) in Canada. ‘Two-Eyed Seeing’ is considered to be a gift of multiple perspectives that is enabled by learning to see both indigenous and non-indigenous knowledges as equal, with neither given preference nor privilege. It speaks not only to the importance of recognising indigenous perspectives as distinct knowledge systems, but also the weaving together of indigenous and Western worldviews.
The researchers argue that guiding ethical imperatives in neuroscience – neuroethics – requires taking into account diverse epistemologies, including the integration of indigenous perspectives and knowledge. They state that pluralism is a scientific necessity to not only further deepen the understanding of the brain but also promote equity and ensure sustainable development of research and clinical practices in brain health.
The perspective invites neuroscientists to enter into meaningful engagement with diverse ways of knowing, learning, teaching, and being, and to become active in such a way as to build trust to earn and maintain – rather than self-proclaim – ally-status. The authors encourage peers to practice epistemic humility to acknowledge the foundations of neuroscience are largely influenced by Western mental frameworks, experiences, and both unconscious and overt biases, and that there is a great deal to be gained in learning about, and implementing indigenous knowledges.
They also encourage neuroscientists to practice cultural humility to recognise that modern brain science has largely drawn from Western cultural norms, and call for a deeper understanding of the history and implications of colonialism, discrimination, injustice and harm caused under a false umbrella of science; a critical examination of the origins of current and emerging scientific assessments; and, consideration of the way culture shapes engagement between Western and indigenous research as well as care systems for brain and mental health.
Using the case topics of disabilities of the brain and mind, suicide, migration health, language, environment and Country, the researchers examine ways in which ‘Two-Eyed Seeing’ can ensure more inclusive perspectives on neuroscience that promote self-determination and strength for indigenous communities, and challenge deficit-based perspectives informed by colonialism, discrimination and violence. They also state that ‘Two-Eyed Seeing’ helps to promote effective communication that breaks down language barriers, embraces cultural differences and explicitly recognises the importance of humility in brain and mental health research and care.
Rudi Taylor-Bragge said it was a great privilege to work alongside such a wonderful, multidisciplinary, diverse group of talented and accomplished scientists and academics, and on such an important piece of research. “Even as this was coming together, I saw first-hand the negative implications that maintaining the status quo in the industry has, with colleagues feeling belittled or undermined due to seemingly incongruent Cultural differences in the workplace,” he said. “These differences are the pillars of a strong, multicultural society and something to be equitably educated on and celebrated.”
The authors hail from a mixture of indigenous and non-indigenous backgrounds spanning Canada, Australia, South Africa, Norway, France, Sweden, India, Switzerland, Mexico, Lebanon and The Netherlands. After convening at the Fondation Brocher in Geneva in May 2024 for a workshop on 'Ethical Imperatives for Indigenous Perspectives on Mind and Brain', the group embarked on a further project - writing a book with Elsevier as part of the Developments in Neuroethics and Bioethics series.
As neuroethics is an emerging field of research, the integration of indigenous perspectives is particularly essential, given that (as of the time of writing) there are no Aboriginal neuroscientists in Australia. With indigenous people at greater risk of suffering from neurological disorders than the broader population, research and healthcare can benefit from implementing culturally sensitive and informed care through advocacy and increased accessibility, beginning with perspectives such as this.
Read Two-Eyed Seeing and Other Indigenous Perspectives for Neuroscience in Nature.
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